Thomas J. Benzing

Thomas John Benzing of San Diego, CA, passed away peacefully on April 21, 2023 at Scripps Mercy hospital.  

     Tom was born Sept. 22, 1942 to Lauretta and Albert Benzing in Dubuque, Iowa.   At the age of 3, the family moved to Ann Arbor, Mi.  He graduated from University of MI with a Master's degree in Business, but also studied music there, playing percussion in the famous marching band. Tom was an accomplished musician of percussion, accordion and keyboard....some may know him as the keyboard player on Del Shannon’s “Runaway” hit in the 60’s.  After graduating, he moved to California, became a business owner in San Diego for many years and retired in 2017.

     Tom met Micki Papini in Las Vegas, New Year’s Day, 1991.  They celebrated 32 years together, enjoying music, dancing and wine tasting with friends and family.  He loved grilling burgers and steaks, pairing meals with wines from his collection. While living in La Jolla, Tom was often seen walking his beloved dachshund, Moo, around the Cove. 

      Tom is survived by his life partner Micki and children:  Robin and Tom Benzing; stepdaughters: Monique, Trisha and Amanda; and 9 grandchildren:  Ashton, Shane, Owen, Nicole, Austin, Mason, Kaylana, Lynnae, and Everett.

      Arrangements for the Celebration of Tom’s amazing life are being planned for his birthday this September.