Ernest "Ernie" BenkichJan. 5, 1923 - May 31, 2010Ernest "Ernie" Benkich, 87 of Albany passed away Monday at Samaritan Albany General Hospital.He was born in Vadarci, Slovenia Yugoslavia the son of Alojz and Franciska (Vrecic) Benkich.  He came to Albany as a refugee sponsored by the American Lutheran Church. Ernie worked for Steen Brothers Meat Packing Company for 19 years until they closed and in 1971 went to work for Teledyne Wah Chang as a sponge grader until he retired in 1987. He married Helena Morec on Jan. 29, 1956, at Faith Lutheran Church where Ernie was also a life member.  He loved gardening including roses, lawn, fruits, and vegetables, he also enjoyed walking and being with his family.He is survived by wife, Helena Benkich; daughter and son-in-law Melissa and David Martenson of Oregon City; brother Elek Benkic and sister Franciska Vukan both of Vadarci, Slovenia; and sister Irena Benkic of Ljubljana, Slovenia.A Celebration of Life will be at 11 a.m. Saturday at Faith Lutheran Church in Albany. Memorial contributions can be made to the Faith Lutheran Church Quilters and sent in care of the funeral home. AAsum-Dufour Funeral Home is handling arrangements.  ( www.aasum-dufour.com )