Jan Paul “J.P.” Benedict, 1944-2019

A celebration of life for Jan Paul “J.P.” Benedict of Alba was Thursday, Feb. 21 at Lake Fork Baptist Church with Bro. Perry Crisp officiating.

Mr. Benedict passed away on Feb. 14, 2019, in Texas.

He was born June 7, 1944, in Hastings, Mich., to Gretchen and Paul Benedict. He was a member of the Epsilon Nu Chapter of Psi Upsilon Fraternity at Michigan State University, Class of 1967. He graduated from MSU with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in zoology/chemistry. J.P. was called to serve in the armed forces during his senior year of college and enlisted in the United States Army for Officer Candidate School. During his tour in Vietnam, he was first lieutenant and platoon leader of the 1099 Transportation Company, nicknamed the 1099th River Rats. He received the following citations/commendation awards: N.D.S.M, USM, VCM, ARCOM and two O/S bars.

After serving our country in the Vietnam War and receiving an honorable discharge, he pursued and obtained his Jurist Doctorate Degree at the Valparaiso School of Law in 1973. He was a member of the State Bar of Michigan and began his career as a prosecuting attorney for Ingham County, Mich., before going on to private practice until 2004.

J.P. and Brenda married in 1998. After moving to Texas in 2004, they purchased a Dairy Queen. J.P. was also an instrument rated, private pilot. He was an

active member of the NCHA (National Cutting Horse Association), ACHA (American Cutting Horse Association) and WCHA (World Cutting Horse Association).

J.P. leaves behind his wife, Brenda of Texas; two sons, Tyler Ripley of Charlotte, Mich., and Travis Ripley of Lindale; three grandchildren; and his sister, Susan Benedict of Charlotte, N.C.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Peter Benedict, of Michigan.

Memorial contributions can be made in his honor to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Arrangements are under the direction of Wilson-Orwosky Funeral Home. The online register can be signed at WilsonOrwoskyFuneralHome.com.