George "Mike" Behnen, 70, of Columbia, IL., born August 1, 1951 in St. Louis, MO., passed away on Thursday, May 5, 2022 at his residence surrounded by his loving family.

Mike retired after 20 years of service in the U.S. Air Force. He was a devoted parishioner of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Columbia, IL., and a member of the Knights of Columbus Lodge #6165 in Columbia, IL.  Mike was an A.C.T.S. Retreat Coordinator for the Church and a substitute teacher in the Columbia School District. He was an avid runner and bicyclist in his younger years.  Mike especially loved spending time with his family.

Preceded in death by his parents, George W. and Virginia Arrendell Behnen, 4 brothers, Anthony, George, Robert and John Behnen and 1 sister Kathy Kremer.

Surviving are his loving wife of 50 years, Darlyne M. Behnen nee Zimmermann, his children Craig (Sarah Clingan) Behnen of Des Moines, IA, David (Erin) Behnen of Nolensville, TN and Carolyn (Steve Strode) Behnen of St. Louis, MO, 2 sisters Judy (John) Hallemann of St. Louis, MO and Julie Behnen of St. Louis, MO, 8 grandchildren Ava, Alaynah, Hanna, Jacob, Kaitlyn, Quinn, Colin, and Dominic. Mike was a dear Uncle, Cousin, Brother-in Law, and friend to many.

Online condolences may be expressed at braunfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Life Network of Southern Illinois. 722 N. Market St., Waterloo, IL.  62298.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 10, 2022 from 10:00am to 12:00pm at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Columbia, IL. A Mass of Christian burial will begin at 12:00pm with Msgr. Carl Scherrer officiating. Burial will be at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis County, MO.

Arrangements entrusted to Braun Family Funeral Home, Columbia, IL.