Valley Springs Grieves the Sudden Loss of Esteemed Public Servant Todd Bennion
Valley Springs, CA – June 20, 2025 — Heartbreak and mourning have swept through the town of Valley Springs following the sudden and untimely passing of Todd Bennion on June 20, 2025. A devoted husband, loving father, and respected public servant, Todd’s loss has left a deep void in the fabric of the community he helped nurture, shape, and uplift for decades.
Todd, 58, was not just a familiar face—he was a cornerstone of Valley Springs. A man whose character was defined by humility, compassion, and quiet leadership, he spent the better part of his life in service to others. His contributions were not confined to his professional roles; they extended into everyday acts of kindness, community involvement, and a deep commitment to bettering the place he called home.
A Life Committed to Service
With over 25 years in local government and community leadership, Todd was a tireless advocate for transparency, civic engagement, and thoughtful progress. He served on various boards, commissions, and volunteer groups, always guided by the belief that a strong community starts with mutual respect and shared responsibility. His calm demeanor, thoughtful decision-making, and approachable nature earned him widespread trust and admiration.
Todd’s influence could be seen in countless initiatives—from improving public parks and recreation programs to supporting youth mentorship and town revitalization efforts. No task was too small, no person unworthy of his attention.
A Family Man First
At the core of Todd’s life was his family. He and his wife, Megan, shared a marriage of over three decades filled with deep love, unwavering partnership, and shared purpose. Together, they raised three children who continue to reflect their father’s values of kindness, hard work, and integrity.
“Todd was our rock,” Megan shared in a heartfelt message. “He was gentle and strong, patient and wise. Everything he did, he did for us and for this community.”
His children remember a man who was always present—at school events, weekend projects, or simply with an encouraging word and warm smile. “He taught us how to live with purpose and how to give without expecting anything in return,” said his daughter, Eliza.
An Outpouring of Community Grief
The news of Todd’s passing has sparked an overwhelming outpouring of sorrow and gratitude across Valley Springs and beyond. Residents have left flowers and messages outside City Hall and the Community Center, while friends and neighbors gather to share stories of how Todd touched their lives.
“He was the heartbeat of this town,” said longtime friend and colleague Mark Espinoza. “Todd never wanted the spotlight—he just wanted to do good. And he did. Every day.”
Local officials, schools, and churches have all issued tributes to Todd’s memory, with the Calaveras County Board of Supervisors observing a moment of silence in his honor. Plans for a public memorial at Valley Springs Park are underway, where the community will come together to celebrate his life and legacy.
A Legacy That Lives On
Though Todd is no longer physically present, the impact of his life’s work will continue to be felt for generations. From the community center he helped revitalize to the many youth whose paths he helped guide, his legacy is firmly rooted in Valley Springs.
Pastor Rachel Dunlap of Valley Springs Community Church put it simply: “Todd lived his faith and values every day. His life was a sermon of love, service, and hope.”
To continue his work and honor his enduring commitment to young leaders, the Bennion family has created the Todd Bennion Civic Leadership Scholarship, which will support students pursuing careers in public service and community development.
Honoring a Life Well Lived
A public funeral service will be held on Friday, June 27 at 11:00 a.m. at Valley Springs Community Church, followed by a reception at the Community Center. All who knew Todd are invited to attend and share in remembering a man who made the world a kinder, better place through quiet dedication and an unwavering belief in the power of community.
As Valley Springs mourns, it also gives thanks—for a man who gave so much of himself, who stood for others, and who left behind not just memories, but a lasting legacy of love and service.
May Todd Bennion rest in peace, and may his example continue to light the way forward for all.
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