Richard Benson

Richard K. Benson, 79, died June 9, 2007 at his Ocean Park residence. Born June 26, 1927 in Medila, Minnesota, he was the only child of Herbert and Marjorie (Jordan) Benson. He grew up on the family farm and received his education in area schools in Minnesota. Richard served in the US Navy from 1945 through 1948 aboard an oil tanker. Returning home he learned the welding trade ad was employed in metal fabrication in Minnesota. Seventeen years ago he moved to Ocean Park to care for his mother. He was baptized in the Lutheran church. Richard enjoyed hunting and fishing and made his own fishing lures. He also enjoyed all types of music, square dancing and dancing with the Noisy Neighbors at Ocean View Convalescent Center in Long Beach. Richard was known as the neighborhood fix-it man, lending a hand where needed, and a loving and caring husband, father and grandfather. He and Brenda Sanderson were married May 23, 1986 in Footville, Wisconsin. She survives are do his children Philip Dean Benson of Bardwell, Kentucky, Jack J. Benson of Wausau, Wisconsin; step-son Dwayne L. Smallwood of Ocean Park, WA; daughter Amanda K. Benson of Seaview, WA; 8 grandchildren and one great grandson. A celebration of his life will be held at his residence, 1714 272nd Place, Ocean Park, from 10 AM until 7 PM on his birthday, Tuesday, June 26, 2007. Cremation arrangements are by Pacific Crematory at Penttila's Chapel by the Sea, Long Beach.