Howard J. Benker, 66, 8417 Timber Lane, Lafayette, died Friday morning, Sept. 21, in St. Elizabeth Hospital Medical Center. He had been hospitalized since August 23, and suffered complications from heart surgery.

He was born Aug. 3, 1924, in Brookston and was a 1942 graduate of Brookston High School. He served in the Navy during World War II.

In 1959 he began a career in real estate and opened his own company, Benker Realty in 1962. He developed Ben-La-Del Estates on Indiana 25 North in 1965.

He was a member of First Assembly of God and Monticello American Legion Post 81, and was a past member of the Gideon's and Lafayette Board of Realtors.

He was married Oct. 24, 1944 to Gladys F. Slayton in Brookston. She survives.

Also surviving, are three children, Diana K. Trapp, Indianapolis; Becky Grimsley, Lafayette and John K. Benker, San Antonio, Texas; and a sister, Wilma E. Benker, Dallas, Texas. Surviving are 6 grandchildren and 1 great grandson. A brother, Clayton preceded in death.

The service was Monday at 11 a.m. in Hartzler Funeral Home, Brookston, with the Rev. Jessie Buell officiating.

Interment was in IOOF Cemetery, Brookston.