Emil R. Benoit, of Farmington Hills, an extraordinary father, grandfather, brother, and friend, entered eternal life early Friday morning, November 22, 2024, at Angela Hospice in Livonia, surrounded by the love of his family. He was 88 years old.

Born March 5, 1936, in Detroit, Emil was the beloved son of the late Emile and Marie (Bernauer) Benoit. A proud graduate of Servite High School in Detroit, Emil pursued higher education starting at Wayne State University, and earning a bachelor's degree from Eastern Michigan University. His professional career spanned decades as a systems analyst for Ford Motor Company, where he retired in 1993.

Emil served his country with honor in the U.S. Navy from August 1959 to August 1961, stationed aboard an aircraft carrier in the Mediterranean Sea.  Literally within days of his military discharge, he married his beloved Rose Marie (DeLeary) on September 2, 1961, at St. John Berchman Catholic Church in Detroit. Their marriage, a testament to love and devotion, lasted over 60 years until Rose Marie's passing on November 7, 2021.

Known for his indomitable spirit, Emil was "tough as nails" yet tenderhearted, always putting others before himself. He powered through life's challenges with quiet strength, an adventurous spirit, and a passion for both travel as well as the comforts of home. Emil had a gift for fixing anything, whether it was a broken appliance or home repair, or a problem in someone's life.

A man of deep faith, Emil was a devoted Catholic and an active member of Our Lady of Sorrows Parish in Farmington. There, he served as an usher, and a tireless volunteer for the parish's homeless shelter initiatives where he faithfully cooked breakfast for guests. Moreover, he was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus and the St. Vincent de Paul Society, embodying a life of service and compassion.

Emil's sense of humor was legendary—sharp, witty, and ever-present, even during his final days in hospice care. He loved golf, cherished time with his family, and was a father figure to many, offering guidance, wisdom, and unconditional love. A true patriarch, he was gracious and kind, never a harsh word about anyone.

Emil is reunited in heaven with his dear wife Rose Marie; his son, Thomas; granddaughter, Theresa Ann Frechette; and his daughter-in-law, Jennifer Benoit.  His legacy of love, faith, and service lives on in his family and the countless lives he touched.

Surviving are four devoted children, Michael Benoit, Joan (Andreana Clay) Benoit, Steven (Megan) Benoit, and Diane (Darren) Frechette; his sister, Sr. Maria Benoit; grandchildren, Melissa Benoit, Jenna (Rob) Strale, Matthew (Bridget) Benoit, Jonathan (Nina) Benoit, Charles Benoit, Otis Benoit-Clay, Brennan Benoit, Bailey Benoit, Madison Benoit, Mel Frechette, Tyler Frechette, and Emilie Frechette; and great-grandchildren, Aidan, Maura, Declan, Saoirse, Peggy, Daniel, Sophia, Magdalena, Beatrice, Emerson, and two more due in early 2025.

The Benoit family will receive guests at the funeral home on Monday, November 25, from 2-8 pm.  The rosary will be prayed at 7 pm.

Emil's funeral Mass, including Naval funeral honors, will be celebrated Tuesday morning, November 26th, at 11:30 am (in state 11:00 am) at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, 23615 Power Rd., Farmington.  Reverend Mark Brauer will preside.

Interment is planned for Wednesday afternoon, November 27th at 1:30 pm, at Great Lakes National Cemetery, Holly.

Memorial tributes are kindly suggested to Angela Hospice.

Rest in peace, Emil, a man of strength, humor, and unwavering faith. You will be deeply missed but forever celebrated.