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Donald Eugene Benge, former owner of The Benge Company and son of Elden Benge, died on the morning of April 6, 2007, in a car accident on a freeway near his home in Burbank, California. He and his twin brother, Ronald Elden Benge (d. 1973) inherited the company upon the death of their father (also from injuries suffered in a car accident) on December 13, 1960. Donald bought out Ronald's share in 1963 and headed the business until its sale to Leisure Time Industries in 1971. The Benge brand is now owned by the Conn-Selmer company.
After the sale of the business, Donald was free to pursue his true interests, coin dealing, game manufacturing and fencing. He is best known for his invention and production of the game Conquest. Until his death he was an active fencer, competing at the national level in the Veterans category.
A memorial service was held on May 6, 2007 in Burbank.
Link:
Joe Lill's Chicago Benge resource site with Donald Benge tribute
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