Dr. Benny D Nefzger, 90, of Rock Island, passed away Friday, October 18, 2024, at Silver Cross Nursing at Friendship Manor, Rock Island.

Benny was born April 2, 1934, in Marshalltown, Iowa, to Leon Nelson and Louise Alvena (Shelton) Nefzger. He graduated from North Des Moines High School in 1952 and furthered his education at the University of Iowa, earning his BS degree in 1956. During this time, Benny married Gaylene Joyce Gregory on June 10, 1956, in Barnes City, Iowa. Benny then served in the U.S. Air Force from 1956 to 1959 and was honorably discharged. After leaving the Air Force, Benny attended Southern Illinois University in Carbondale and earned a MA degree in 1965 and taught for two years at the University. Benny then transferred to Grinnell College where he was an associate professor of Sociology. During his time at Grinnell College, he was chairman of the Sociology department. Benny returned to the University of Iowa and earned his PhD in 1973 and became a professor at Augustana College where he spent the rest of his career. Benny held this position from 1974 to 2003 before retiring and becoming Professor Emeritus of Sociology.

Benny had a life of community service. He held positions on many boards, including the Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center, Lutheran Social Services, AIDS Project of the QC (now known as The Project), Family Resources, PBS, and the ARC of the Quad Cities where he earned the Lifetime Service award. Benny was a longtime member of the American Sociological Association and dedicated a lot of time to the Two Rivers United Methodist Church meal site.

Benny had many hobbies. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, backpacking, fishing, camping, biking, and reading. Benny loved traveling with his wife, visiting China, Asia, Europe, Bolivia, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Bosnia, Croatia, Alaska, and Poland to name a few. He was also a huge supporter of Augustana College and enjoyed following the college's basketball and football teams. Benny also enjoyed attending various cultural events and performances at Augustana. Above all, Benny cherished the time spent with his family.

Those left to honor Benny's memory include his daughters, Julie Smith and Sally (Bradley) Bridges; grandchildren, Eric (Chelsey) Smith, Ashley Poust (Lucy Chang), Benjamin (Jessica) Poust, Allison (Patrick) Cameron, Jennifer Marler (Colby), and Alex Nefzger; twelve great-grandchildren; and sister, Mary Weber.

Benny was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Gaylene, son, Gregory Nefzger, brother, Ken Nefzger, and brother-in-law, Gene.

Memorial donations may be made to Heartland Hospice in Benny's memory.

All are welcome to attend a Celebration of Life Gathering on Saturday, November 9, 2024, from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. at the Lindberg Center at Augustana College, 3501 7th Avenue, Rock Island. Private inurnment will be in Chippiannock Cemetery, Rock Island at a later date.

Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, Rock Island is assisting Benny's family with arrangements and online condolences and memories may be shared on his tribute wall at www.wheelanpressly.com.