Louis Michael Benko

Louis Michael Benko, 77, passed away peacefully on November 5, 2026, at home in the presence of the wife he loved. He was born on July 16, 1949, in Pittsburgh, the eldest son of Louis S. and Barbara (Paranay) Benko.

Lou grew up in the Greenfield neighborhood of the Steel City enjoying a variety of sports while honing his athletic skills at McKee Field. He learned to support and love both the Pirates and the Steelers. From an early age he was a faithful altar boy who grew to know Christ in a very personal and lasting way. He was a graduate of Central Catholic High School, Class of 1967, where he earned athletic letters in football, swimming, and track & field. He began his undergraduate studies at Thiel College on an athletic scholarship as a lineman for the Tomcats. He began working construction with his dad during the summer to earn money to help pay for his education. A proud member and pledge master for Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity he was given the respectful and affectionate nickname "Beast" (Yes, of X-Men comic book fame).

In 1971, he graduated with a BA in English and a secondary teaching degree. Later he received his master’s degree from Edinboro University. As an avid reader, natural mentor, and athlete he found his calling in teaching and coaching high school students. He began his career at Clairton High School, then later at Moniteau High School and finally ending a 38-year career at Fort LeBoeuf High School in 2010. Touching the lives of so many young people over 2 generations was his lifetime accomplishment.

In 1973 he married a gal he met at Thiel, Karen Carlson, and they began their 53-year marriage by motoring to Colorado for their honeymoon. Little did they know then, how often that road trip would be repeated. In due time, with God's provision and direction, they settled in Erie for good. In Summit Township they raised their three sons: Stephen, Nathan and Adam. The Benko Boys! Lou loved being a father with lots of horseplay and discipline thrown in. His life-long love of reading and books combined with his love of music and theatre along with all his sports knowledge helped shape these young guys into well-rounded and interesting men.

Lou continued to serve God in his church while on the vestry of Church of the Holy Spirit as their senior warden. He was not afraid to take part with his kids in church musicals and also helped with youth group. His sense of humor and his calm steady nature earned him many friends. A reluctant camper, he did nevertheless join his sons in outdoor activities and fundraising during their years in Scouting. He coached their Little League baseball teams and later coached them again as they began playing football for the Bison. One of his last joys was watching his 7th grade grandson win a football championship play-off game.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by an infant sister, Mary Benko, his brother, Russel Benko, a brother-in- law William Dudley and another brother-in-law, James Walsh.

He is survived by his wife and their sons: Stephen L Benko, Nathan L. Benko and Adam M. Benko all of Denver. Other loved ones include three grandchildren in Colorado, Alora Tortorelli Cruz, Walker Benko and Jameson Benko. His surviving sisters are Connie Walsh, Valerie Benko, Rebecca Brandon (Mark), Barbara Hough (John), and Loretta Dudley who all still live in the Pittsburgh area. His brother-in-law, J. David Carslon (Carol) of Cary, NC are close members of the family along with numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and cousins living throughout the country.

Family and friends are invited to call at Burton Quinn Scott Cremation & Funeral Services, Inc. Downtown, 602 West 10th Street, on Friday, November 13, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Friends are also invited for Funeral Services at Saint Marks Episcopal Church on Saturday November 14th at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Saint Marks Episcopal Church 4701 Old French Rd, Erie, PA 16509. Donations will be used for the outreach ministry fund which provides meals, shelter and winter coats throughout the City of Erie.