Story Tools • • Date of Issue: February 18, 2009 Obituaries Michael Thomas ‘Spike’ Benison Michael Thomas “Spike” Benison, 60, of Cortez, died Feb. 12. Born in Niles, Mich., Mr. Benison moved to Manatee County and Anna Maria Island in 1971 and worked in construction. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps in Vietnam from 1965-68. A celebration of his life, including a breakfast buffet and benefit, will begin at 9 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 21, at Skippers Pub & Grill, 10104 Cortez Road W., Bradenton. He is survived by his "bride" and best friend Kathleen Marie Jennis Benison; daughter Heather Quinn and husband Paul; two brothers, Patrick and wife Cheryl and Russell; grandchildren Michael, Logan, and Lily; brothers-in-law Michael Jennis and wife Cindy and Larry Jennis; sister-in-law Stephanie McGroarty; several nieces and nephews; and many friends.   Nadine Bowes Nadine Bowes, 65, of Holmes Beach, died Feb. 9. Mrs. Bowes was chef, owner and operator of Nadine's 10th Street Bistro at the former Riverpark retirement home, Bradenton. She was a member of Ss. Peter & Paul the Apostles Catholic Church, Bradenton. Visitation was Feb. 13, and Funeral Mass Feb. 14 at the church. Griffith-Cline Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. She is survived by husband Thomas; sons Bradford and wife Catherine, Nathan and wife Amy, and Matthew and wife Karen; brothers Arthur Giovannoni and Marc Giovannoni; mother Lena Giovannoni; and grandchildren Luke, Matthew and Michael.   Julia DiRocco Julia DiRocco, 86, of Bradenton, died Jan. 25. Mrs. DiRocco moved to Manatee County from Portland, Ore., in 1984. She was retired as associate executive director of the United Way. Memorial services will be held at a later date. She is survived by son John Kreidler of Anna Maria Island.   Marion ‘Wes’ Stump Marion "Wes" Stump, 58, of Bradenton Beach, died Feb. 7. Mr. Stump worked for the Bradenton Beach Public Works Department for more than 24 years as a sanitation employee. There were no services. A fund has been established for his grandchildren at Century Bank, 6351 Manatee Ave., Bradenton FL 34209. Griffith-Cline Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. He was preceded in death by his wife, Edna. He is survived by son John and wife Pam; brothers Larry and David; and eight grandchildren.