Emil Benkowich Jr.

Emil A. "Sonny" Benkowich Jr., 72, of Jackson died Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2011, at The Lutheran Home in Cape Girardeau.

He was born July 25, 1939, in St. Louis, to Emil and Florence Hirschfield Benkowich Sr. He married Patricia Rose Hennkins. She preceded him in death in 1997.

Emil was a loving father and grandfather.

Survivors include a son, John Benkowich; a daughter, Christine Graham; a granddaughter, Tricia Bigham, all of Cape Girardeau; a grandson, Tony Benkowich of Jackson; a great-grandson, Conner Lindsay of Cape Girardeau; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, a sister and two brothers.

Visitation will be from noon until time of service Thursday at Crain Funeral Home in Cape Girardeau.

The funeral will be at 2 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family to offset expenses and will be accepted at the funeral home.

To leave online condolences, please visit www.crainsonline.com.