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Garrett Benson Obituary
Garrett Ryan Benson born November 4, 1981, died in Eureka on December 3, 2008, at the age of 27.
He serviced for 9 years in the National Guard, being deployed for one year in Utah and 1 year in Sinai, Egypt. He was a UPS employee and worked there for 7 1/2 years as a driver. People always were happy to see Garrett deliver their packages. Brown never looked so good.
He is survived by his best friend and girlfriend, Rachel Wold; mother, Susan Benson; father, Randy and Laura Benson; sister, Erika Benson; brother, Logan Benson of Chico. He is also survived by his uncles, Todd and his wife Lora, Ric Benson and Greg Wyckoff; and by his grandmothers, Christine Benson and Barbara Wyckoff.
He was preceded by his grandfathers, Jack Wyckoff and Paul Benson.
Friends are invited to attend the Memorial at the Wharfinger Building in Eureka at 11 am on Sunday December 14th.
Arrangements are under the direction of: Sanders Funeral Home, Eureka.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to CASA of Humboldt or Food for People.
Afterglow
I’d like the memory of me
to be a happy one.
I’d like to leave an afterglow
of smiles when life is done.
I’d like to leave an echo
whispering softly down the ways,
of happy times and laughing times
and bright and sunny days.
I’d like the tears of those who grieve,
to dry before the sun
of happy memories that I leave
when life is done.
Please sign the guestbook at www.times-standard.com, click on obituaries.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Garrett Benson
Teresa Platz
January 27, 2023
I´m so sorry for this family´s loss. As the mother of two sons who both have served in the NG, and mother in law of a UPS driver, I can only imagine the pain of having any of their lives cut so short. Sending my prayers for Garrett´s soul, and for God´s peace to this family, until you meet again.
Sgt. Christopher Harris
December 29, 2008
I'm sorry to lose one of our Brothers from the "'Nai." Sgt Benson had the admirable calm, cool demeaner that is always best in a soldier. I remember the nights we had off from our outposts in South Camp when we all let loose: Sgt. Benson was always in the middle of it having a ball! He will be in our memories, hearts and always our Bro!
Randy Benson
December 29, 2008
Garrett My Beloved Son,
There are not words that can be said that can express my deep sorrow and loss. You have always been such a joy in my life. When I think of what I will be missing in your life, such as your marriage and father to my grandchildren, it totally breaks my heart. No dad should ever have to go through what I have experienced since your departure from this earth. I do find comfort in God and all the wonderful things that have been said about you by so many. I know that someday we will be together again. I will cherish the day sweet boy. I will love you forever.
Dad
Teresa Wold
December 24, 2008
Garrett, thank you for all the wonderful things you brought to our family. Especially the unconditional love and support you showed my daughter. I was so looking forward to you being the father of my grandchildren. Susan and Erika, I can not thank you enough for sharing such an amazing son and brother with us, you will always be a part of our family. Love you Always.
Derek White
December 23, 2008
Garrett, you were one of my best friends in the whole world. I will never forget a single moment that I was lucky enough to spend with you. Your spot in my heart will never be forgotten or replaced. So many memories imbedded deep into my life, I just can't wait to see you again someday and keep the memories rollin. -Heavy D
Rachel Wold
December 22, 2008
Garrett you were a role model for so many people but you showed me how to live life to its fullest and more importantly how to love. Our bond can never be broken and as time passes memories will not fade. You have left the most tremendous impact upon my life and with the loss of you, the emptiness is nearly unbearable. You were my best friend and the love of my life. I hope that you are in a happy place and I will see you again someday. I love and miss you G.
Serra Burres
December 21, 2008
I met Garrett way back in junior high and he is somebody one can never forget. His laugh, smile and humor always stick out in my mind. Whenever I ran into him, he always was smiling and ready with a kind word. Although I did not get to know him as well as I wish I could have, he will truely be missed. My condolences to his family and friends.
Randle Thomsen
December 20, 2008
i had the honnor of knowing garrett for a few yrs both as a enlisted serviceman then as a NCO.
he served with me on a remote site on our last mission, and i thought highly of him, and his ability to lead his team, i also told my senor nco,s he (garrett) should be considered for faster advancement.
i also thought of him a a jolly BIG man
but not one i,d want to upset.
he had seperated from our unit only a short few months ago.
i even caught the news about the event. but never connected it.
till the next drill weekend, and i was totally shocked to learn it was Garrett
my heart thoughts and prayers to all your family and friends Garrett.
i know i,ll miss you
ssg R Thomsen
Jeffrey Gray
December 18, 2008
Garrett Benson was a great leader , a great solider, a great engineer and a greater friend.
i had the pleaser to deploy with him in Sinia
God speed
Debbie Kable
December 16, 2008
I knew Garrett as "Jethro" which was the nick name given to him by the staff at our office when he was our UPS driver. He would stomp up the stairs and we always knew it was him ... the stairs still squeak where he used to stomp the hardest. He was a great guy and I wish the best for those he's left behind.
April Tuttle
December 16, 2008
Garrett...I will never forget your goofy laugh and how we would sit around and sing just to drive Rachel crazy...Or how about the nights you would record things on the dvr just to make us laugh at all the idiots who made mistakes on tv. You were more to me than just a friend you were someone who made my best friend happy and for that I thank you...She loved you sooo much. She told me the following sunday that she was ready to spend the rest of her life with you. Even though it made me sick to think that someone could be that happy (lol)...I was glad it was you. I will miss you sooo much...who else is going to drive me crazy with their huge jugular...you know what I mean. I am so sorry and so sad...but don't worry my friend we will see each other again...love you g! To anyone who knew Garret...You were so lucky! Forever in my heart...
Timothy Burrus
December 15, 2008
garret, or SGT. Benson as i knew him was a great guy. he was my squad leader and mentor for a couple years in the guard. I looked up to him alot, he was one of those guys who was also happy to see you. i will miss him a lot and will never forget him. My condolences go out to his family and friends
Gary and Tina Emerson
December 14, 2008
We were so saddened to hear the news of Garrett's passing. Although we didn't know him well, we remember him from the Little League days when he played baseball with our son. Garrett has always been such a polite and friendly young man. We are deeply sorry for your loss and wish all of your family comfort and peace in the many memories you cherish of Garrett.
Mary Peterson
December 14, 2008
Ray and I were just crushed to hear of Garrett's passing. I had Garrett as a student and our two sons were friends of his since elementary school....one working with him at UPS also. What a wonderful guy! Susan, you can be proud of raising such a great young man! He was loved and respected by so very many. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time.
Travis Finlay
December 13, 2008
Garrett, I can't even begin to explain the hurt and pain that I went through that day....You were an unforgettable friend that will be with me forever. Thanks for givin' me strength bro.
Travis
Don Chin
December 13, 2008
Garrett was a very polite and pleasant young man...a gentle giant from what I observed as I helped him find a home earlier this year to live in. When I heard the news about his passing, I was emotionally devastated. My heartfelt prayers go out to his family, to Rachel and his friends and co-workers at UPS and in the National Guard. Garrett's smile and positive outlook on life will be truly missed.
The Tilley Family
December 13, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers to Garrett's family and Rachel. He was a wonderful man with a kind heart.
Walter Boyle
December 12, 2008
I was deployed with Garrett in Sinai Egypt...I was really shocked to hear this news, he was truly and outstanding guy. The world will not be the same without him.
Joseph Turner
December 12, 2008
Garrett is and will continue to be missed. We deployed to Egypt together, much like many others who have signed, we bumped heads quite often but in the end I considered him a friend. I also wish to give my condolences to his family.
David Viveiros
December 12, 2008
I worked with Garrett and always thought he was a great person.his passing has devastated myself and all his coworkers at ups. my condolences to the Family and many friends. We will never forget him.
Chris Kramer
December 11, 2008
Garrett I will miss you. You where always a great friend and a outstanding soldier.
Joseph Conlin
December 11, 2008
Garret was a great Soldier and good friend who will be missed by all. The world is a lesser place with out him.
Leonard Holly
December 11, 2008
When I first met Young Benson he had the biggest smile and a deep laugh, no matter what you did he never or lost control. Benson was one to go out of his way to help even thoughs he did'nt know. Benson was an exelent NCO and leader. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. I will miss you. Solong big guy. I'll see you on the other side.
Jody Helms
December 10, 2008
SGT Benson was a great Soldier, friend and mentor. I will always remember him for his great sense of humor and for the pride he displayed in all aspects of his life. His smile and laughter would enlighten anybody's mood and I know he will be missed immensely.
Scott Quade
December 10, 2008
Words can't say enough of how I felt about Benson. I will miss you buddy.
Nancy & Tim Hall
December 10, 2008
To all of Garrett's family and friends, We were so saddened to hear of Garrett's death and our thoughts and prayers go out to you. I have lived up the street from Garrett for many years and first met Garrett when I hired him to do yard work for me. I will always remember one day when I looked out and instead of mowing my lawn Garrett was playing with my big dog, and I smiled and thought how great that was....and it was a lesson to me not to let the work of life get in our way but we need to play and enjoy the day more. May your love for Garrett and the great memories you have of him bring you comfort.
Ralph Beckmannn
December 10, 2008
Life is but a small Journey, and when we get to the otherside,we can tell the good Lord that we did our best to protect the meek, and the children of God, God bless Garrett Benson , the world will be less brighter without you SSGT Beckmann
Norman Clark
December 10, 2008
Sgt.Benson was and will remain a kind and gentle soul.I was fortunate to have met him on our deployment in Sinia,Egypt and consider myself lucky to have served with Him.He is not gone from us here on earth for he will always be looking in on us from time to time to keep us in line. I will always keep him and His family in my heart and prayers.God must have needed another engineer for some,unknown to us,reason.I will miss him,but,I am comforted in knowing the fact that He is with us always in our Hearts.
Darus Trutna
December 10, 2008
Garrett was a role model and a great soldier. I was proud to work with him during the Noble Eagle and Enduring Freedom missions. This community has lost a powerful and charismatic leader.
Steve Hoffman
December 9, 2008
My sympathies and prayers to the loved ones of SGT Benson, a fine soldier and NCO. When we were on deployment in 2005 to Eqypt he always was able to bring out the best in people. He was living proof that ""Heroes walk among us". Glad to have served with him , I am a better man for having know him.
Eric Brogdon
December 9, 2008
Garrett was an amazing friend and an amazing person. He always had a smile on his face and was quick to help you have one also. I will miss having my friend to laugh with. My heart goes out to all those that knew him. We love you G-Man
David Taggs
December 9, 2008
Garrett was such an integral part of the 579th during the Sinai deployment. I am truly sorry for his family and loved ones.
Esther Oakley
December 9, 2008
Dear Erika and Susan, As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
With Love,
Esther Oakley
Romulo Jimenez Sr
December 9, 2008
Much condolences to the Garrett family. I got to know Benson during my deployment to the Middle East, he was a young man with great sense of humor and character. Romulo Jimenez Sr (Vietnam)
Douglas McEldowney
December 9, 2008
I had the pleasure of serving with Benson during our deployment to Egypt in 2005. Although he was not under my command, you couldn't help but notice him. His physical stature was only exceeded by the size of his heart. As many have said, he was a gentle giant. My condolences and my prayers go out to his family and loved ones.
Becky Hickey
December 9, 2008
My greatest sympathies to Garrett's family and also to Rachel. I had known Garrett since Kindergarten and he was one of the kindest people that I have known. He will be missed sorely.
Gary Jurrell Davis
December 9, 2008
I am in deepest sympathy to the loved ones of Sir Benson. I will always be able to smile thinking about such a Gigantic and Genuine soul like Benson. During our deployment he made light of such intense situations. Thanks Benson for your spirit. You will Truly be missed.
Justin Ford
December 9, 2008
Benson was a great soldier and even better person. He made me a better soldier and person along with everyone else he came in contact with. Benson will never be forgotten and is and always will be a part of the 579th.
Barry Brown
December 9, 2008
Randy and family...when any of the old "Humboldt Hill Gang" suffer, we all suffer. I know what a difficult time this has to be. Know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Blake Shepard
December 9, 2008
I got to know Garrett while deployed to Egypt in 04-06, although we were not close, I will miss you. My thoughts and prayers go to the family. You will not be forgotten Garrett.
Carter Skillman
December 9, 2008
Garrett, when I first saw him at drill back in 2000, I thought man what a gentle giant. Garrett had a sense of humor and took things in stride. I never saw him out of control. My sympathy to the family of this soldier, a hero, my friend. I pray you all find the strenght to make it thru each and every day.
Adam Rix
December 9, 2008
My condolances to Bensons friends and family. I was fortunate enough to serve as his Commander in Eurkea. I could always rely on Garrett to accomplish all tasks, to go above and beyond what was asked, and to allow fellow soldiers to have fun. Benson was marked by distinct character, humor, wit, charisma, confidence and competence that set him apart from his peers and is much missed by all those in the 132nd MRBC (B-Company), 579th.
Anne Mark
December 9, 2008
Garrett - I can see him now as I raise my head to stare up at this handsome, natural born leader. EB, I'll see you soon...me, Norman + Tamara are headed up to celebrate his LIFE with you, Susan and Rachel.
Karen Ronk
December 9, 2008
"Too Tall" was one of my favorite guys. He seemed immortal and I am spooked by his passing. Dear family, please remember that a better day is coming when you will get to see him again. May God give you comfort and courage as you deal with things in the future months ahead. Garrett is so loved by so many. He will never be forgotten. Take care, Karen Ronk
Brenda Phillips - Shrider
December 9, 2008
I knew Garrett as the UPS man, I will miss his smiles. To Randy and Laura, and Susan, I am so, so sorry. A very sad time for you and I can't help but think about you every day now. My heart and my prayers go out to each of you.
John Mohon
December 8, 2008
My sincere condolences to the family and friends of Garrett. I had the awesome pleasure of being his First Sergeant on an overseas deployment to the Middle East from 04-06 and I will never forget the incredible contribution he made to our company. His wit, humor, spirit and strength, both physical and in character, will never be forgotten. You'll be missed, Benson....
Erica Stuck
December 8, 2008
I knew Garrett through the National Guard. He was hard to miss. He was a great guy. He had a ready smile and gave great hugs. My heart is saddened at his death. It is a great loss to us all and he will be greatly missed. My prayers are with his family and friends.
Katie Blair
December 8, 2008
I went to school with Garrett since kindergarden and he grew up just down the road from me. He was on my top 10 list of the nicest guys I know. I was very sorry to hear about what happened to him and my prayers are with Rachel & his family.
Carson and Marcia Brady
December 8, 2008
To all of Garrett's family and friends:
We are praying for comfort during this difficult time. Garrett was a wonderful man and he will be missed by many people.
Liz Tieck
December 8, 2008
We at The UPS Store will miss Garrett so much. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. He always had a friendly word to say and often went beyond the call of duty to help people. We were really lucky to have met him.
Kim Krause
December 8, 2008
My heart goes out to the family of Garrett. I only knew him as a customer of UPS, but he was the friendliest and nicest of the bunch. He always remembered me, even though I am one of hundreds of customers, and made me smile. He really cared about people, and it showed.
Teresa Miller
December 8, 2008
Deepest Sympathy. My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Garrett. This has touched my heart and I will never forget the rafting trip we shared in 2006.
Sarah Walker
December 8, 2008
To the family of Garrett, my condolences. I didn't know him closely but went to highschool with him and he always had a smile. He was a very nice man and I am so sorry for your loss.
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