Aurora, Ohio – Community members and leaders are mourning the loss of David Benjamin, a distinguished attorney and professor, who passed away on July 8 at his Aurora home. Benjamin, who was the spouse of Aurora Mayor Ann Womer Benjamin, has been widely acclaimed for his robust contributions to education and law, as well as his community service.
Benjamin’s legacy encompasses a lifelong dedication to law, teaching, and volunteering. He was not only an active legal professional but also imparted his expertise at prominent institutions such as Case Western Reserve University, University of Akron, and Hiram College. Alongside his professional obligations, Benjamin nurtured a passion for politics and golf, often bringing people together over a game or a political discussion.
Family members, including his wife, Aurora Mayor Ann Womer Benjamin, described him as a pillar of strength and love within the family. “David was everything to us; his love for his family was profound, and the support we’ve received has been tremendously comforting,” stated Mayor Womer Benjamin.
Friends and colleagues recall Benjamin as a mentor who was always eager to provide guidance. Municipal Court Judge Kevin Poland, who once worked alongside Benjamin at the Portage County Prosecutor’s Office, credits him as an invaluable mentor and friend. “David had an open-door policy. He was always ready to lend a hand or share his invaluable advice,” Poland reflected.
Chad Hawks, a magistrate in the Portage County Common Pleas Court and former student of Benjamin, echoed these sentiments. “Dave was not only humorous and approachful but also deeply knowledgeable and always willing to help anyone in need, particularly in navigating the intricacies of the law,” Hawks said.
His professional also extended into volunteer service. He served as president of Aurora’s chapter of Public Employee Retirees Inc. and was a board member of the Aurora Chamber of Commerce. His influence spread through the local community, where he arranged educational events and facilitated opportunities for residents to interact with political candidates and understand key legislative issues better.
“David Benjamin was known for bringing much more than just his professional acumen to the table; he brought a visible passion for life and his community, notably seen in his joy when talking about his beloved Cape Cod, and of course, his avid engagement in golf,” said Kathleen Wurm Kolar of the Public Employee Retirees Inc.
Benjamin’s impact extended into his personal interests in golf, playing in various prestigious courses around the globe and sharing this joy with friends and community members. His contributions to the game were also evident in his efforts to provide golf caddie scholarships through the Evans Scholars Program, ensuring support for the next generation of enthusiasts.
Survived by his wife, daughters Katherine Womer Benjamin and Johanna Womer Benjamin, his two grandchildren, and several close family members, Benjamin leaves behind a legacy of service and education. A public visitation and memorial service is scheduled for him at The Church in Aurora this Saturday, providing an opportunity for the community to honor his impactful life.
In memory of David Benjamin’s enduring contributions to his community and field, the family has asked that any donations be directed to the Evans Scholars Program to support caddie scholarships, continuing his legacy of supporting others.