Donald W. Benedict, formerly of Sacramento, passed away on January 3, 2015. Don worked 28 years for the Office of the Legislative Analyst. He was in charge of formulating the budgets for state resources. Projects included the Central Valley Water Project, the renovation of Cal Expo and the establishment of the CA State Railroad Museum. He received commendations from the CA Legislature for his work. Don was born May 10, 1922 in Mt. Vernon, WA.
He graduated from the Univ. of WA in 1943 and obtained a Masters degree in Public Administration from Wayne State in Michigan. During WWII he served with the U.S. Army Infantry in the Philippines. He worked for the Bonneville Power Admin in OR before starting with the Legislative Analyst’s Office. Don married his wife, Verna, in 1954 and they moved to the South Land Park area of Sacramento. Don designed and constructed the house in which they lived for 45 years, raising 4 children.
They moved to Eskaton Village Carmichael in 2003. He enjoyed tending his large garden of fruits, vegetables and ornamental plants. Don was an active mountain climber and a lifelong member of the Mazamas mountaineering club. In 1955 he received their Sixteen Major Northwest Peaks Award. He was an avid dancer, teaching folk, square and polka dancing, and was an active member and past President of the Sacramento Polka Boosters. Don is survived by his wife Verna, his children Debra (Steve), Susan, Anita and Rusty (Lisa), and his granddaughters Emma and Becca. At Don’s request there will be no formal service. Donations may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.
Donald was the 61st person to be awarded the Sixteen Major Northwest Peaks Award which he received in 1955. He was a lifetime member of the Mazamas.
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