Thomas Francis Benyo

Thomas Francis Benyo, 66, of Willow Springs, Mo., died May 19, 2015, from a heart attack while fishing in the ocean in Destin, Fla., doing what he loved.

He was born in St. Louis, on April 20, 1949, to Andrew and Evelyn Benyo (nee Bringaze).

Tom graduated from Gibault High School in Waterloo, in 1967 and Rockhurst College in Kansas City, Mo., in 1971. He taught high school biology, coached for 25 years and was a golf course superintendent for 19 years in Thayer and Willow Springs, Mo.

He is survived by his loving wife of 5 years, Linda (nee Duddridge) Benyo; two children, Angie McGrew and her husband, Josh, of Bentonville, Ark,, and Lori Reyes and her husband, Johnny, of Webb City, Mo.; two stepsons, Richard Feldman and Jackie of Cabool, Mo., and Robert Feldman of Ozark, Mo.; six grandchildren, Kortney Feldman, Maddy Feldman, Carter Farris, Johnny Reyes II, Brooks McGrew and Lincoln Reyes; six siblings, Andy Benyo and his wife, Peggy, of Lee’s Summit, Mo., Dave Benyo and his wife, Vicki, of Lee’s Summit, Mo., Rose Kloeppinger and her husband, Rich, of Washington, Mo., Joe Benyo and his wife, Sandy. of Waterloo, John Benyo and his wife, Rhonda, of Valmeyer, and Chris Benyo and his wife, Denise, of North Aurora; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Evelyn Benyo.

Tom deeply loved his family and was passionate about many things, including golf, fishing, camping, and being a sports enthusiast. He loved new adventures and family vacations at the beach. He had a positive impact on many lives and will not be forgotten.

Tom was a special husband, a committed dad and an admired grandpa.

The visitation is Friday, May 29, from 6 to 8 p.m., at First General Baptist Church of Willow Springs, Mo.

A memorial service is planned for 2 p.m. Saturday, May 30, also at the First General Baptist Church of Willow Springs.