JD Behnke's Obituary
Justin David "JD" Behnke was born on October 21, 1980, in Decatur, Illinois, at Decatur Memorial Hospital. He died at the age of 44 on March 12, 2025, in Decatur, Illinois, also at Decatur Memorial Hospital.
Surviving are his three children, Blake Behnke, Brandi Behnke, and Haley Peters (Alex Peters); three grandchildren, Avrie Behnke, Aubrie Behnke, and August Behnke; three siblings, Crystal Warnick, Richard Behnke, and Chelsey Behnke. He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Debrah Behnke.
Justin, better known as JD, had lived his whole life in Decatur, Illinois, but was always found being up to something. He would often work on a project, listen to music (specifically Eminem), go fishing, go for a walk or a bike ride, or sit on the front porch soaking up the weather. Even when it was storming, he loved being outside and watching it roll past. He was well-known for his love of cooking. When he wasn’t cooking at work or on the grill for his family, he would take his kids for a bike ride. JD rode his bike much as a kid and passed that bike-riding love to all three of his children.
He will be greatly missed for the witty comments and silly jokes he told so often. He loved his family so much, and they meant the world to him. He was a loving son, brother, father, uncle, and grandpa. The presence of light he brought to the room will be irreplaceable.
As JD rests peacefully, he would want us to remember this lyrics from his favorite artist:
“And when I'm gone, just carry on, don't mourn
Rejoice every time you hear the sound of my voice
Just know that I'm lookin' down on you smilin’ And I didn't feel a thing,
so, baby, don't feel no pain, just smile back”
(“When I’m Gone” by Eminem).
What’s your fondest memory of Justin?
What’s a lesson you learned from Justin?
Share a story where Justin's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Justin you’ll never forget.
How did Justin make you smile?