James Dale Bentz

James D. “Jim” Bentz, 66, of South Bend, formally of Dowagiac, passed away at his home. A private graveside service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions in Jim’s name may be made to Southwestern Michigan College’s Science Department. Those wishing to sign Jim’s Memory Book online may do so at www.clarkch.com. Jim was born November 9, 1953, to Dale and JoAnn (Willesen) Bentz in Duluth, Minnesota. He graduated from Dowagiac High School in 1972. Jim went on to attend South Western Michigan College (SMC) to purse a degree in science, he was one of the first from SMC to graduate in the Chemistry Tech Program. He graduated with his Bachelor’s Degree in Science from Indiana University (IUSB). He worked as a senior chemist for over 40 years before his retirement, working for Bayer Laboratories in Mishawaka, Miles Laboratory in South Bend, and Siemens in Elkhart. Science was something he was very passionate about, he enjoyed teaching others and could often be found teaching on the weekends at Science Alive. Most of all he loved his family and will be missed by all who knew him. Jim is survived by his sisters, Nancy (Rick) Myers of Dowagiac, and Sandra Bentz of California; nephew, Jon Myers and Niece, Kelsey (Brian) Kline. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Lori (Dan) Cleveland and niece, Rebecca Cleveland.