Simons Funeral Home Inc.

On July 17, 2010, Miriam "Mim" Young Behnk of Hampton Township, beloved wife for "25 wonderful years" to the late Donald John Behnk, and mother of the late John Noel Behnk, died. She is survived by her loving daughter Elisa May Behnk, family members and dear friends. With unceasing courage and determination she faced formidable challenges throughout her life. Uncommonly kind and generous, she was devoted to the education of "her kids" across three continents. In 1950-52 she served as a civilian educator for children of American Air Force families stationed in Landsberg, Germany. She traveled extensively, with a passion to “see everything, do everything,” and to share these experiences with her students. In 1953-54 she taught in Tokyo, Japan. She took up ikebana and calligraphy, which, like travel, she continued to enjoy throughout her life. Settling in Pittsburgh in 1955, she met and married her beloved Don. After starting a family, she resumed teaching in Hampton Township, where she is remembered with great fondness by students, parents and fellow teachers. In 1997 members of her first class—the second-grade class of 1945 in Hollidaysburg, PA—hosted a reunion in her honor. “To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children...to leave the world a better place...to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded.” (Emerson)

A memorial service will be held Friday, August 27, 11am, Memorial Park Presbyterian Church. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Mim Behnk Memorial Fund. Arrangements by Simons Funeral Home, Inc. 412-367-3100.