Bracken Michael Bench

Bracken Michael Bench, beloved son of Michael K. Bench and Renee A. (Winchell) Bench, was born on September 22, 1982, at General Leonard Wood Army Community Hospital in Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. Bracken grew up in Waynesville, a place he called home, where he attended school and graduated from Waynesville High School with the Class of 2001. As a young boy, Bracken spent many days at the family business, Bench Motor Co. Inc., where he later began his working years. He had a creative hand and a strong work ethic, painting motorcycles and vehicles and traveling to help customers with paintless dent repair after hailstorms. Bracken found joy in many things and brought his own creativity to each of them. He learned to make sushi at a local restaurant and loved sharing that skill. Talented at nearly anything he tried, he was never afraid to learn something new. He also enjoyed shooting pool, gardening, cooking, custom painting, and fishing. Bracken was preceded in death by his Uncle Bruce, Aunt Diana, Nana, Papa, Grandmaw Ellie, and Pa Larry. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him, shared in his life, and loved him. He leaves to cherish his memory his parents, Michael and Renee Bench of St. Robert, Missouri, along with many dear friends whose lives were touched by his presence. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Bracken to the Shriners Hospital for Crippled Children and may be left at Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville/St. Robert. FROM BRACKEN’S FAMILY Our son, Bracken, passed over on the afternoon of July 7, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. in the SSM Hospital of St. Louis, Missouri after a battle with an illness having attained the age of 43 years Bracken had been compromised/weakened if you will, after battling the enemies of his flesh. Although Bracken never gave up, his aggressors multiplied and rallied to overcome his best efforts to heal and survive. However, he was finally set free from his pain and suffering and the corruption of this world. It is our hope that he has joined family, friends, pets, and loved ones that have previously finished their journeys, and welcoming Bracken to his new abode…. Bracken was a warrior just like his mother. Renee and I are proud of his battle. Shine on you crazy diamond. So mote it be. Private graveside services were held in the Waynesville Memorial Park Cemetery of Waynesville, Missouri. Services were under the care and direction of Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert.

Bracken Michael Bench

September 22, 1982 - July 7, 2026