Benedict Joseph Birchem

Benedict Joseph Birchem, 88, of Bella Vista died Saturday, Nov. 11, 2017 at Mercy Medical Center of Rogers. He was born Dec. 1, 1928 in St. Joseph, Minnesota the son of Susan Trutwin and Joseph Birchem. He served in the US Army during the Korean War. He enjoyed watching football especially the Minnesota Vikings. He was a pressman for 38 years in Minnesota. He retired to Bella Vista 20 years ago. He loved growing potatoes, gambling and especially playing poker. He was preceded in death by his parents and nine siblings. Benedict is survived by his wife of 63 years, Doris Birchem; two sons, Ben Birchem, of Minnesota, David Birchem, of Bella Vista; one brother, James "Jim" Birchem and his wife Kathy, of Minnesota; two sisters, Ruthie Hlad and her husband Larry, of Minnesota, Mary Birchem. Mass of Christian Burial will be Wednesday at 10 a.m. at St. Stephen Catholic Church located in Bentonville. Interment will follow at St. Vincent Cemetery of Rogers. Full military honors will be provided by the Bella Vista Honor Guard. Arrangements by Epting Funeral Home Bella Vista. Condolences: www.eptingfuneralhome.webs.com.