A Community Grieves a Devoted Husband, Loving Father, and Brave Public Servant

A Community Grieves a Devoted Husband, Loving Father, and Brave Public Servant

VALLEY SPRINGS, CA — A deep and heartbreaking sorrow has fallen over the community of Valley Springs following the tragic passing of Todd Bennion on June 20, 2025. Todd was a dedicated Correctional Officer for the State of California, a loving husband, and a devoted father. His death has left not only his family but an entire town grieving the loss of a man who gave so much of himself to others.

Todd served the state with honor, working long, grueling hours in a profession known for its challenges and dangers. He carried the heavy burden of his duties quietly, always putting his family and his responsibilities first. To his wife, Samantha, and their children—Dylan (15), Warren (5), and Alden (2)—Todd was everything. He was their rock, their protector, and the heart of their home.

Samantha, who serves Calaveras County as a full-time employment counselor for Human Services, stood beside Todd in life as a partner in love and resilience. Together, they built a life grounded in dedication, family, and service to others.

A Silent Struggle

What many outside the profession may not realize is the profound mental and emotional toll correctional work can take. Behind the walls, beyond the uniforms, correctional officers face daily exposure to trauma, stress, and danger. Studies show they are seven times more likely to die by suicide than the average population—a chilling statistic that reflects the invisible weight many carry.

Todd was no stranger to this struggle. He was brave enough to seek help, actively working with a therapist to navigate the emotional strain of his work. He fought hard. But even the strongest hearts can be overcome by pain too deep to see. Despite his efforts, Todd lost his battle with mental health.

His passing is not just a personal tragedy—it is a community loss, and a sobering reminder of how vital mental health awareness and support are for those who serve on the front lines.

A Family in Mourning

Now, Samantha and their three boys face life without their beloved husband and father. The grief is immeasurable. The void he leaves is overwhelming. And with his loss comes the heavy weight of financial hardship—the sudden absence of his income, coupled with funeral expenses and the cost of daily life for a young family.

Friends, neighbors, and loved ones have begun rallying around the Bennion family, hoping to ease the burden in any way possible. The goal is simple: to help Samantha and her children remain in their home, a place of love and familiarity, as they begin the long, painful journey through grief and healing.

Mourning a Life That Mattered

Todd Bennion will be remembered not for how he died, but for how he lived—with integrity, strength, compassion, and love. He was a quiet hero—a man who worked behind the scenes, who gave his all to his family, and who never asked for praise.

As Valley Springs mourns his loss, we hold close to the memories of a man who meant so much to so many. We grieve with Samantha, Dylan, Warren, and Alden. We honor Todd’s service, his courage, and his love.

Rest in peace, Todd. You were deeply loved, and you will never be forgotten.

Your legacy lives on in your family, your community, and the countless lives you touched.