66, Master Illustrator, Beloved Storyteller, Dear Friend

Minnetonka, MN — Hugh Leo Bennewitz, illustrator extraordinaire whose imagination and artistic skills touched everyone around him, passed away peacefully at age 66 following a four-and-a-half-year odyssey with cancer.

Hugh possessed a rare gift: the ability to bring emotion, and life to paper with the stroke of a brush, pen, or pencil. Beyond his creative talent, he was known for his generous spirit, wickedly quick wit, boundless curiosity and deep devotion to his family and friends. Throughout his prolonged battle with illness, Hugh approached every milestone with resilience, grace, and an enduring sense of humor and determination that lifted those around him. He lived a remarkable life.

He is survived by his beloved wife and soulmate, Jennifer Briggs; his brothers, Bob (Mary) and Kelly (Katy); and a vibrant dynamic of adoring nieces, nephews and friends who will forever treasure Hugh's boundless creativity, warmth, and stories. Hughy never followed the rules and that is exactly what we love about him.

A celebration of Hugh's life and art will be held on Wednesday, August 12 at River Hills United Methodist Church, 11100 River Hills Dr, Burnsville, MN 55337. 12 noon visiting hour, 1pm service. Lunch following. A livestream of the service will be available at: www.riverhillsumc.org/worship

In lieu of flowers, the family will distribute donations made in Hugh's memory.