Final Salute

Benjamin Marvin Witt, 86, passed away on January 24, 2025, at his home surrounded by his family.

Benjamin was born on November 8, 1938, in Hartford, Illinois to James Marion & Julia (Bond) Witt.

He served in the United States Navy from 1959 to 1965 as a Seabee and was stationed in New Port, Rhode Island and traveled extensively during his time in the Navy; including Guantanamo Bay Cuba, the Antarctic, Sydney Australia and Spain.

Benjamin married Barbara Francis Rogowicz on June 29, 1962, in Warwick, Rhode Island. She preceded him in death on September 30, 2008.

Benjamin was a member of the Bethalto Masonic Lodge #406. In his younger years, he enjoyed hunting and fishing. After retiring, he and his wife, Barbara loved to travel and see the country. Some time after her passing he continued to travel and visit most of the US National Parks, including Alaska twice, with his girlfriend, Linda Poeling.

He is survived by his children, Brenda (Marvin) Thompson, Deborah Witt, Tracy Witt, Shelly (Jeff) Hillard, and Brian (Kristin) Witt; his grandchildren, David, Justin, and James Thompson, Nolan, James, and Amber Hillard, Benjamin, Haley, and Cooper Witt; his brother, Gary (Elaine) Witt; and sister-in-law Geraldine Witt.

In addition to his parents and wife Barbara Francis, he was preceded in death by his sister, June Ellen; brothers, Aaron Dean, James, Marion, and Ray Witt; and sisters-in-law, Caroline, Barbara Rose, and Aileen.

Visitation will be held on Monday, January 27, 2025, from 4 to 7 pm, at Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto. Masonic Honors will be on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at 9:45 am, with funeral services immediately following, 10 am. Mark Scandrett will officiate.

Burial will follow at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto, Illinois, with military honors performed by Alton WFW Post 1308.

In lieu of flowers, Memorials may be given to Bethalto Masonic Lodge # 406 or Shriners Hospital for Children.

Online condolences and guestbook may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com