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George Benson

1938 - 2019

George Benson obituary, 1938-2019, Anchorage, AK

George Benson Obituary

As in his favorite song "The Gambler," George Benson died in his sleep from complications of a stroke. He was born in Salmon, Idaho, attended the University of Idaho, served two years in the army, taught school in Blackfoot, Idaho, and then moved to Alaska in 1964 to teach in Talkeetna. In 1970, he became partners with his sister and brother-in-law, Ron and Mary Ann Cooper, in Central Plumbing and Heating.
George enjoyed singing and playing his ukulele with family and friends. He was an avid golfer, even though he admitted to spending a lot of time looking for his golf ball. He was an enthusiastic fan of nearly every sport. George was active in the Mt. McKinley Lions Club. He was a minor official for University of Alaska Anchorage and high school hockey. Realizing the benefit of referees having standards and being critiqued so they might reach their highest potential, George became the state coordinator for referee evaluations. Young boys have credited him because he took them under his wing as they studied to become refs. A high point in his life was the Chet Steward Award given in Colorado Springs in recognition of volunteer service.
He is survived by his wife, Linda; and children, Brad, Kirk, Nate (Kristie) and Tara (Bobby). His five granddaughters Peyton Allison, Abigail, Serena and Lorelei were the pride of his life. Also, his sister Norni, with whom he sang many a song. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Ruth Benson; and siblings, Claude, Betty, Tina and Mary Ann.
A funeral will be held this summer.
Memorials may be made to Dimond Alumni Foundation, Dimond High School, 205 East Dimond Boulevard, Anchorage, AK 99515; or Mt. McKinley Lions Club Foundation, P.O. Box 243373, Anchorage, AK 99524.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Anchorage Daily News on May 19, 2019.

Memories and Condolences
for George Benson

Sponsored by The Benson's, Fall's, and Deptula's.

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Louise Lashaw

May 31, 2019

We were lucky to have spent a few visits with Linda and George. He was a sweet and kind man and we are thrilled that we get to share many moments with George's "Daddy's little girl" and our daughter-in-law Tara.
Love Louise and Sass

Julia Cossman

May 28, 2019

Much love, many hugs and kisses to your whole wonderful family. The Benson's have been enriching our lives for many years! George will be in our hearts. Thank you, Linda for sharing George's story with us.
Love,
Julia and Paul

May 23, 2019

Sorry to hear of your loss. George was a great man and he had a smile for everyone

May 22, 2019

Dear Linda, Kirk,Brad,Tara, and Nate,
We are very sad and sorry to hear about George's passing. We always enjoyed the time we spent traveling together around the country for hockey tournaments, and also at all the DHS games or other school events as our families grew up.

He was a wonderful man who always seemed to have the ability to turn lemons into lemonade, and to put a smile on peoples faces. It was also always obvious how proud he was of all of you and how much he loved you!

We'll pray that you all can find God's peace and blessings in this difficult time.

Chuck & Carol Szopa
Anchorage

May 22, 2019

So. sorry to hear about your loss, but try and find some comfort in the promise of God at Ps 37:29-MJ

Carole Fischler

May 21, 2019

Linda & Family, So sorry to hear of George's passing. He was a very nice man and a great Lion. Carole Fischler, Former Mt Mckinley Lion Member

Paul Szopa

May 20, 2019

Dear Benson Family,
My deepest condolences to you all. I have fond memories of Mr. Benson passionately cheering our hockey teams through the years, and his kindness to all will be remembered. My family and I will keep you in our prayers.

Gene Storm

May 20, 2019

I knew George as a fellow Mt. McKinley Lion. He was a pleasure to know and work with on club projects. I also shared many hours on the golf course with George, a humbling experience for the both of us. I particularly remember the drive from Anchorage to Whitehorse for a Lions event, where George led all six of us in song along with Highwaymen. My thoughts are with Linda and the entire Benson family.

May 19, 2019

May your wonderful memories of the life you shared help to comfort and strengthen you during your time of grief.

Bettina Aguilera

May 19, 2019

Uncle George, we are all blessed to have known you and to be within your warm embrace, even from afar. Much love from your niece, Bettina (Isley) Aguilera

Jim Mallery

May 17, 2019

George was a friend and mentor. He welcomed me into Lions Club 28 years ago. He was generous with his time talents and treasure.
George had a great sense of humor which kept the Club meetings going. He always showed up for work projectseven in his later years when his health wouldnt allow him to participate, but he still was there as an encouragement to others.
George will be missed.

June Wayman

May 17, 2019

You will be missed by many.

Robert Rubey

May 17, 2019

One of the nicest guys you'd ever meet. He had a great sense of humor that you only got to see after you got to know him. RIP, George, one of the good guys.

Rachel Hynes

May 17, 2019

George, wonderful husband of my friend, It has been a pleasure knowing you and sharing over the years, life experiences, opinions and an excellent drink on occasion. The positive impact you made on those with whom you had contact speaks volumes of you. You will be remembered fondly,and in warm hearts .

Margo Sadel

May 16, 2019

George was one of the most caring and wonderful refs I have ever witnessed in the ice . May you find an wonderful pond on which you may continue your love of the sport in the Heavens above. Much love ...

Connie & Gary Hardwick

May 16, 2019

George was a wonderful man, he was a mentor to many of the hockey officials and he will be missed by many.

My favorite memory of George was when he found out he was the USA Hockey Referee of the Year, he was shocked. He was so humble about receiving it.

Don & Linda Oliver

May 16, 2019

RIP George, it was an honor to have known you. You made a great impact on our family's life. You will dearly missed.

May 16, 2019

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Liana Wayman

May 15, 2019

The John W. Wayman, Jr. family (June: Lions Club; John: Dimond Hockey), extend their condolences to the Benson Family.

John Wayman

May 15, 2019

I am sorry to hear of George's passing. I played hockey and went to school for years with his son Kirk. My condolences to the Benson Family. He was a very nice man and supportive of the community.

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