Ray E. Benson

Ray E. Benson passed away suddenly November 9, 2013 at his home with his wife of 65 years, Jean, by his side. On this day his wife and family lost the toughest, strongest and completely selfless man we will ever know. He devoted his life to taking care of his wife and family, never complaining or asking for anything in return. He loved to tease and joke with people. He was a man of few words but plenty of action; however, his family always knew they were loved. Ray was born July 23, 1925 in Portland, OR. His family moved to Washington a short time later. He served in WWII until he was honorably discharged July 1946. He then went on to serve in the Korean War from August 1950 to January 1952 when he was honorably discharged. He met his wife, Jean Buchholz, on a blind date; they married September 10, 1948. After his years of service in the Navy, he returned home and, with his wife, built their home in Lynnwood, WA. He became a construction plumber, pipefitter, and a member of Local Union #26. Together they worked hard and raised four children. Ray was a Boy Scout Troop Leader in the Martha Lake area from 1967-1971. He loved to bowl, play cards, and dreamed of traveling. When he retired, his dream of traveling became a reality. Ray and Jean sold the family home they had raised their family in, bought a motor home, and traveled the country for 17 years. When they were no longer able to travel, they eventually moved into an assisted living facility. He had multiple health issues that he fought and overcame with sheer will and orneriness. It was the great love of his beloved Jean, as well as a "little" orneriness, pride, and a strong desire to care for her, that gave him the strength to overcome those health issues and keep going. Sadly he lost the fight and is now watching over her from above. He is survived by his wife of 65 years; four children, Steve Benson, his wife, Linda and their children, Trista, Adam and Kyle; Rick Benson, his wife Laurie, their children, Kathleen and Amy; Sue Wunsch, her husband, Bob; Sue's children, Danny, Larry and Shawn; and Bob's son, Eric; and Theresa Benson, her husband, Robert; Theresa's son, William; as well as four great grand-children. Interment will be at Tahoma National Cemetery.