Marie (Melba) Benz  July 3, 1927 - January 16, 2021

Marie (Melba) Benz was born July 3, 1927, the first of seven children, to Alma and Otis Phillips, in Oklahoma. Before she was of school age, her family moved to the Lake Labish area of Oregon, where they farmed. From a young age, Marie loved dogs, and was always a friend to wayward animals. She graduated from Salem High School, married Earl Benz on January 16, 1948, and was the mother of four.

Earl and Marie opened and operated Benzies Foreign Auto Wrecking Yard. All of her grandchildren remember the automotive smell of Benzies, the big "yard dogs", and Grandma's vast knowledge of untold car parts and pieces and willingness to help friends, family and strangers find exactly what they need.

Helping was a part of her nature. From delivering meals and care packages to neighbors, friends, and family, to lending a helping hand to anyone in need, to always putting the needs of others above her own, she was truly a selfless woman. Devastating heartbreaks in her life sparked a resilience in her. She developed the gift of being able to help others get back up and keep going. From her experiences she became an encourager. Those who knew her said she was the strongest woman they knew.

Marie was passionate about and served many years in the American Legion Auxiliary. A highlight for her was representing Oregon at the National Convention in Salt Lake City, Utah, 1996. She was recognized and honored for her years of service.

Throughout her life, she loved to travel. She and Earl took several trips to Europe, always including train rides which was probably her favorite mode of transportation. They also traveled to South America, and New Zealand. In her later years, she took several trips and cruises with friends and other family and was able to see Africa, Egypt, the Panama Canal, and Ireland. Wherever she went, she seemed to find new friends. It was said of her, "she never met a stranger". She enjoyed gardening and canning and was famous for her frozen strawberry jam, which she loved sharing with friends and family.

Marie was preceded in death by husband Earl, and two sons, Reginald E. Benz, and Zachary P. Benz. She is survived by daughter Nancy Morris, son Bruce Benz, sister Brenda Phillips, grandchildren Scott Golde, Danielle Mackey, Tiffanie Golde, Leslie Cutler, Lance Benz, Nathan Benz, Jeremy Benz , and 12 great grandchildren.

A private burial will be held at Willamette National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Marie Benz may be made to Willamette Valley Humane Society at 4642 Turner Road SE, Salem OR 97317