Paul Benson

Paul Vernon Benson, age 90, went home to be with the Lord and his lovely wife, Dorothy, on September 25, 2011. He made his first stop at the Lakes Regional Health Care and then proceeded on to his eternal home. Paul Vernon Benson was born on April 24, 1921, in Plymouth County, Iowa, to Werner and Esther (Pearson) Benson. He was baptized and confirmed by Rev. Samualson at Faith Lutheran Church in Marcus, Iowa. Paul went to country school through the eighth grade and then he helped his father farm south of Marcus. In his forties, he secured a high school diploma through the GED program; something he was very proud of accomplishing. On September 4, 1945, Paul was untied in marriage to Dorothy Marie Winchester. Paul and Dorothy farmed in the Marcus-Cleghorn area until March of 1967, and then established Benson's Cottages in Arnolds Park. Paul served as fire chief and scout master, as well as working for the town of Arnolds Park. He was employed with the DNR form 1969-1984. In 1976, Paul and Dorothy moved to the Millers Bay area. The two traveled around the country upon their retirements. Paul was an avid reader and enjoyed playing music on his keyboard and piano, as well as on his accordion. He loved to visit with family and friends; supplying with his many growing-up stories and quips and quotes to keep everyone laughing. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the apple of his eye. Paul is survived by his son, Paul and his wife, Lois, of Spencer, Iowa and his daughters: Julia and husband, Tom Rizzo, of Weatherford, Texas, Nancy and Marilyn and her husband, Arnie, of St. James, Minnesota; grandchildren, Dirk, Teri (John Tracy), Anthony (Melinda), Eric Jonathon (Sadie), Malinda (special friend, Dewey), along with seven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by sisters-in-law, LaVonne Benson and Lois Winchester; two cats, Puss and Boots. Those who preceded him in death were his wife, Dorothy; his parents; brother, Bertil and sister, Elizabeth.