Michael Daniel Benda, Jr. passed away on November 26, 2024 at his residence in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

Mike was preceded in death by his father Michael Daniel Benda, Sr., mother Mary Frances Hamilton Benda, sister Alison Benda and brother Stephen Benda (Gretchen).

Mike is survived by his wife of 31 years Bridget Duffy, sisters Andrea and Leslie Benda, and sister-in-law Gretchen Benda. He’ll be missed by nieces and nephews Wynter Benda (Shannon), Helena Benda Navarro (Jon), Hamilton Sims Cerrone (Dan), Austin Benda, Amy Walton Brownell (Keith), Kathleen Walton, Charles Walton III and Molly Walton Lawson (Jimmy), as well as many grand-nieces and grand-nephews. His friends, who he considered family, will also miss his wit, curiosity and outrageousness!

Mike was born in Camp LeJeune, North Carolina and spent his early years in the places where his Marine Corps father was stationed. He attended Thalia Elementary School, Princess Anne High School and graduated from Old Dominion University with a BS in Civil Engineering, later earning his Professional Engineer License. His career started with Norfolk Western Railroad working in several locations, and ended with retirement from the Department of Development and Permits with the City of Chesapeake, Virginia.

Mike lived his life with zest. He enjoyed listening to the music of Robin Trower, Marshall Tucker and Charlie Daniels to name a few of his favorites. He loved soaking up his daily dose of vitamin D while working his crossword puzzles, tinkering with his watch collection and watching Baltimore Orioles baseball. Go Os!

Mike loved the Outer Banks, especially Robert’s Crabpot, surfing, fishing and golfing. Always up for fun, Mike relished good times with friends and family and will be missed by all who were lucky enough to know him. Be assured he was pure gold Mike to the end!

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.