Daniel Joseph Benner

1962 – 2021

Dan Benner, accomplished Architect, Riverside Art Museum Trustee, and a 33-year resident of Riverside, CA, passed away on Sunday, December 26, 2021.

Born Daniel Benner the eldest of four he spent his first years in Illinois before resettling in Southern California. He graduated from Palos Verdes High School. Following an early discovered interest, he received a Bachelor of Architecture degree from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, and went on to build a professional career as a licensed architect in the civic and educational arenas with a primary focus on designing K–12 schools throughout the Inland Empire.

Affectionately known as “Dano,” he generously shared his time, energy, and expertise with numerous philanthropic endeavors. He served as a founding Board Member of the Inland Empire Chapter of the ACE Mentor Program, an organization providing mentoring and scholarships to high school students in under-served communities interested in pursuing careers in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction. As a Trustee of the Riverside Art Museum, Dan chaired the Collections and Acquisitions as well as Building and Grounds committees and played an active role in helping realize the Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture, the first center dedicated to showcasing Mexican-American art and culture. He also served as a Board Member of the American Institute of Architects, Inland California Chapter.

Known for his quick wit and wry sense of humor, intelligent curiosity, and passion for art and architecture, Dan was an avid cyclist who also loved hiking, skiing, and, above all, traveling. He was an incredibly proud father to his son Cole.

Dan was preceded by his father, Daniel C. Benner, and his stepmother, Debra Zimmerman. He is survived by his wife, M. René Glynn, son Cole Benner, mother, Vivian Benner, and siblings, Brad, Brian, Chris, Deborah, and Denise. The family asks people who wish to honor Dan’s memory to donate to the Inland Empire Chapter of the ACE Mentor Program.

The family will hold an in-person and online memorial mass on Saturday, March 12, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. at All Saints Episcopal Church in Riverside, CA. Due to social distancing requirements and health department guidelines, in-person attendance will be invite-only, with attendees required to wear a facemask and expected to be fully vaccinated. All are welcome to join the memorial online. The family appreciates your understanding.