Richard Behnke, 76, passed away on Monday, April 24, 2017 in Orlando, FL. He was born September 18, 1940 in Chicago, IL, the son of Theodore and Charlotte Behnke. Richard had three siblings; Robert, a Catholic priest of the Carmelite order and sisters, Mary Anne and Dorothy.

Richard earned Master's and Doctorate degrees in sociology at the University of Nebraska. A career followed teaching sociology and anthropology at Pensacola State College. Richard earned many classroom achievements, including teacher of the year honors.

Richard enjoyed volunteering with the college's reading service for the vision impaired.

Rich Behnke is survived by Claire, his wife of fifty years. Other survivors include daughter, Elizabeth Alipio and granddaughter, Alexis of Orlando; son, Matthew (Sarah) and granddaughters, Izabel and Molly of Pensacola and a sister, Mary Anne of Chicago.

Visitation will be held 2-4pm, Sunday, April 30, 2017 at Harper-Morris Memorial Chapel. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00am Monday, May 1, 2017 at the Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel. Burial will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Oxfam America, 226 Causeway St., 5th Floor, Boston, MA 02114-2206.