Dana Benedict, the founder of Pinnacle Real Estate Group in South Lake Tahoe, died Dec. 30. He was 53.

Dana was born June 10, 1960, in Willows. He was raised in Boulder Creek, attended San Lorenzo Valley High School and graduated from the University of Oregon. Those that knew him well were drawn into his passion for the Oregon Ducks and life in the mountains.

Dana Benedict

Always an entrepreneur, family and friends smile with memories of his many ventures such as raising and selling earthworms, Christmas wreaths designed from computer punch cards and packaging ashes for sale from Mount St. Helens.

He helped create Tahoe Property Management and Pinnacle Lake Tahoe Getaways.

His lifelong passion for the outdoors began with numerous family trips to the Sierra. That passion grew to include camping, fishing, skiing, snowmobiling and dirt bikes. Among his personal outdoor highlights was hiking the Pacific Crest Trail.

He supported every activity his kids participated in, never missing baseball or football games, or cross country meets.

Dana is survived by his wife, Michelle Blue Benedict, and their children Sarah and Todd. Siblings include Kent and Paula Benedict, Barbara and Spencer Kimball, Carolyn and Charlie Baird. Also left behind are 14 nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Arje Benedict and Kathryn Kent Benedict.

A celebration of life will be Jan. 25 from 4-6pm at Lake Tahoe Golf Course. Those looking to make a memorial donation are encouraged to contribute to the children’s college funds. E-gift pages may be found online. Todd’s account number is 616075329 and Sarah’s is 616075310.