Donald Earl Benbow

Don was born July 11, 1940, in Muncie, IN to Carlton and Thelma (McClung) Benbow, both of whom preceded him in death. Surviving is his wife of 45 years, Gerlinde (Schuff) Benbow; children Kip (Nikki) Benbow, Benjamin (Emily) Benbow, and Gina (Colin) Clayton. He is also survived by his brother, Ed Benbow of Auburn, granddaughter Murphy, and grandsons Atticus and Isaac Benbow.

Following Don’s graduation from Muncie Central High School in 1958, he received his Bachelor of Science in Education (1963) and his Master of Science in Education (1966) from Butler University. During his time as an undergraduate student at Butler, Don played football as an offensive tackle wearing number 55 under Tony Hinkle. He served as team captain, leading the Bulldogs to a three-year 26-1 winning record, including the undefeated 1961 team. As a player, Don was named a Little All American, was recipient of the Hilton Brown Award, and was named Indianapolis News MVP. Don was fortunate to have Tony Hinkle as his professional mentor, who instilled in him a love of all things the “Butler Way.” Anyone who knew Don Benbow knew he was the epitome of a Butler Bulldog.

After graduation, Don taught and coached football and wrestling at Shortridge High School where he and life-long friend, George Bohlin, coached the 1967 wrestling team to a state championship. After a few short years, Don returned to devote his 36 year career at his Alma Mater. Affectionately known as “Coach” to decades of players and colleagues, he served Butler for the remainder of his life in various capacities, including Associate Athletic Director, assistant football coach for 16 years, and head coach for the men’s and women’s golf teams. A few of his proudest achievements include developing and implementing the women’s golf program, as well as establishing a bi-annual golf expedition to Scotland for student athletes and alumni. After his retirement, Don served as a volunteer assistant coach for the women’s golf team. Don’s multitude of accolades include induction into the Indiana Football and Wrestling Halls of Fame, and the Delaware County and Butler Athletic Halls of Fame. As further testament to Don’s impact at Butler, the Sellick Field (Butler Bowl) 50 yard line is dedicated in his name, which was spearheaded and funded by his former players and coaches.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 30 from 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. at Butler University in the Hinkle Fieldhouse Efroymson Family Gym (West Gym), located at 510 W 49th St, Indianapolis, IN 46208. Remarks will be held at 2:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that memorial donations be made to The Donald Benbow Fund. You may call (317) 940-8162 or email [email protected] to make a contribution.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at https://www.dignitymemorial.com for the Benbow family.