Mesa, Arizona
Benson, Debra Petra
returned to her heavenly Father on March 23 in Mesa, Arizona after a long, courageous battle. Debbie was born May 8, 1966 in Salt Lake City, Utah. She attended school in Salt Lake City, after which she moved to Arizona. She married Buddy Benson January 16, 1987 in the Mesa Temple. They were blessed with two wonderful children, Tyler Jourdan and Breanna, whom Debbie considered her crowning jewels. Debbie was a wonderful daughter, sister, mother and friend. She was a source of amazement to all who knew her. She inspired many with her resilience, tenacity and "can do" attitude in spite of the physical challenges she had been given. She was known as the "Energizer Bunny" within her family because she could outwork and outplay most everyone. She was always with a camera and felt it was her job to create "magic" at every family gathering. Debbie was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and showed her love of the Lord by service to her family and in many church callings. She was life long learner and delighted in the college classes she was able to take and we know she plans to finish on the other side. She was a friend to everyone and loved to be with family and friends. Debbie is survived by: her husband, Buddy and son Tyler, Queen Creek; Breanna Hansen (Brian), Cedar City, Utah; parents, Tom and Jessica Price, Salt Lake City, Utah; Brother, Steven Winder (Wendy) Springville, Utah; sisters, Rebecca Schmidt (Victor) and Crystal Peterson, (Tim) both of West Valley City, Utah. She is also survived by mother in law, Eleanor Benson, Orderville, Utah and parents in law Jerry and Kay Curtis, Rancho Palos Verdes, California; brothers in law AJ Curtis(Jen), Brisbane Australia and Ken Curtis(Renae) West Valley City, Utah. She leaves many nieces and nephews who were loved and nurtured by "Aunt Debbie' and who love her and will miss her very much. A poet once wrote that there are many people who live on earth for a very long time and when they are gone they leave hardly a ripple; others are with us but for a very short while and leave footprints in our hearts forever.-such was Debbie Benson. Funeral services will be held Saturday, March 27 at 10 am in the Queen Creek Stake Center: 22035 E Ocotillo Rd., Queen Creek, AZ 85142. A viewing will be held on March 26 6-8 pm at Bunker University Chapel: 3529 E University Dr., Mesa, AZ 85213 and one hour before the services. Burial will be in the Mountain View Cemetery, 7900 E Main St., Mesa, AZ 85207.
In listening to the relatives speak today, I now understand how much you two were alike in life. I will always remember who helped move me into my first home. I love you Buddy.
Chris Black
March 27, 2010 | Glendale, AZ
I wanted to let you know that my prayers are with the entire family. Debbie was an inspiration to everyone who had the priveledge of knowing her. She is definitely an angel in heaven. She will be missed. I worked with her at Americredit and she always had a smile on her face and a positive attitude.
Rita Lister
March 27, 2010 | Chandler, AZ
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family during this difficult time. I enjoyed seeing Debbie's smiling face each day at work and we will all miss her dearly..I will truely miss those email updates I would get from her ;)
Sara Frazier
March 27, 2010 | Gilbert, AZ
Buddy, thank you for allowing me the opportunity to meet Debbie and your family during a truly special occasion last year. After hearing you speak of your family with such joy, I witnessed first hand "true, everlasting love" between you and Debbie and I will not forget it anytime soon. The two of you set an example for all to follow. She was an amazing person. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Elaine Fernandez
March 26, 2010 | Phoenix, AZ
Buddy and Family,
My deepest and sincerest sympathies to you all. May you find comfort and peace knowing that Debbie is with our heavenly Father and is no longer suffering, but rather she will now be you Special Angel, loving you as always. You are all in my prayers. God Bless and keep you.
Angelina Diaz
March 26, 2010 | Phoenix, AZ
Buddy and family, I have been honored to have met Debbie during these last six plus years of your journey together. I have been singularly impressed with the deep love and strong friendship the two of you have shared over the years. The testimony of your loving care, awesome hope and patience through the most painful of times are an inspiration to all who get to know you. God bless you in the rest of your journey.
David Strate
March 26, 2010 | Phoenix, AZ
Thank you for allowing me to meet your dear Debbie on the few occasions I did. She was full of life and energy and had a smile on her face each time I saw her. Please accept my condolences.
Krista Piepenburg
March 26, 2010 | Glendale, AZ
Buddy,
I am so sorry for your loss. From our many "field" adventures, I know that you had a great love and respect for Debbie. Please know that your APD family is always here for you. God Bless.....
Terri Seiser-Saunders
March 26, 2010 | Avondale, AZ
My prayers go out to you, Buddy, and your family at this difficult time. I didn't know Debbie, but when you spoke of her, you did it with much love and care. I feel that Debbie is in a better place now and won't have to suffer thru any illness any longer. She will be a shining Angel in your heart and others. May God Bless You and your family and give you the strength you need.
Olivia C Ramirez
March 26, 2010 | Phoenix, AZ