Charles Fred Rusty Benner, 76, formerly of Eaton Rapids, died on Monday, March 5, 2012 in Dade City, Florida. He was born in Oroville, California on November 6, 1935 to the late Alma (Orin) Swain. He was preceded in death by his father, Charles F. Hodge, stepfather Henry Benner, and spouses Georgette, Helen, and Margie. Rusty grew up in northern California and graduated from Red Bluff Union High School in 1953. He eventually found his way to Michigan and retired from the Eaton Rapids School District in 1996. He and his life partner, Linda McDougall, lived together in Mecosta during the summer months and enjoyed warm, sunny days in Dade City, Florida escaping the cold Michigan winters. Rusty enjoyed puzzles, playing computer solitaire, NASCAR, and was an avid Jack Daniel's collector and USC fan. He was a simple gracious man who loved his family and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.Rusty is survived by his children, Robin (Ricky) Rodriguez, Vicky Benner, Laurie (Larry) Foster, Michelle (Michael) King, Chuck (Chris) Benner, Orin (Cheryl) Benner, Paula (Tony) Eldridge, and Todd (Carla) Benner; stepson Sid (Sally) Shirey; brother Henry (Judy) Benner; and sister Norreene Riley. He also is survived by grandchildren Larry, Georgette, Jennifer, Mandy, Amanda, Charlie, David, Brandon, Nathan, Brittany, Chase, Brayden, and Trace; great grandchildren, Dakota and MJ; and special friends, Jim and Dale. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 13th at St. Peter Catholic Church, 515 E. Knight St, Eaton Rapids with visitation beginning at 11:00 am. The Rev. Father Bennett P. Constantine will officiate. Interment will be at the Rosehill Cemetery following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made to the American Diabetes Association or the American Heart Association.