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RICHARD BENSON Obituary
Richard is survived by his daughters, Kristin Dominguez and Amanda Birnbaum; son, Jeffrey "J.J."; sister, Barbara Maddox; and many loving grandchildren, nieces, nephews and extended family. Richard was a loving father and grandfather, beloved entertainer and a friend to all.
Born in DeKalb to Walter and Lillian Benson, Richard was known for his quick-witted humor and passion for music; his life was spent spreading that joy to others. He hit the road with his popular band, "The Swingin' Lads," where they played opposite Wayne Newton in Las Vegas and appeared on The Ed Sullivan and Dean Martin shows before he returned to Illinois. He finished college at Northern Illinois University, where he met wife of 38 years, Karyn, and began working with his father, vice president of Wurlitzer Pianos & Organs. Richard and Karyn then moved to Bloomington to raise their family, and Richard opened a successful piano retail store, Dick Benson's Music! Music!
Richard fronted the Dick Benson Band – central Illinois' most popular dance band for more than 30 years, bringing joy to thousands and mentoring much of the best local talent. But, his most lasting musical legacy may be as the creator and founder of popular, "The Sounds Of Christmas," annual show, sponsored by State Farm.
The family offers a special thank-you to St. Patrick's Residence for their tremendously loving care and support. The family held a private memorial service there.
Memorial donations in Richard's name can be made to St. Patrick's Residence, 1400 Brookdale Road, Naperville, IL 60563.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for RICHARD BENSON
Roger Palmer
April 11, 2022
A good friend a great musician with a lot of talent.
Memories go back to 6th St. DeKalb, Il. were we grew up. A lot of good times was had. He is missed.
James N. Anderson
April 11, 2022
As a life long friend from early childhood, Rich (never called him "Dick") will always be remembered for his humor, musical talent, and for just being a loyal and true friend.
Roger Palmer
April 11, 2021
A good an talented friend who is truly missed.
Roger Palmer
April 11, 2020
A good friend - A great Talent - and part of the great 6th St neighborhood bunch. Missed.
James Anderson
April 11, 2019
Just to add some thoughts. With some others who have posted, e.g. Carol Johnson and Roger Palmer, we grew up as young kids on North 6th Street. Rich (I always called him Rich or Richard) and I remained friends throughout our lives although we had gone separate ways in our adult years. My first airplane ride was to Texas to visit him where his family lived for a time in Tyler,TX before moving back to DeKalb. We played chess, went to the movies on Sundays as young lads, and later took in a Cubs game or two at Wrigley in Rich's Ford. In fact, he drove that car to visit me in Boulder, CO when I was at CU while on his way to do some gig in Las Vegas as I recall. There were many other fond memories that come to mind, but none greater than to remember Rich as a true and loyal friend who made life richer for all those who knew him.
Carol Hornby Goodin
May 4, 2013
My deepest sympathy to Dick's family. I am so happy that he came to the reunion and we all could visit. God's blessings to all of you and I'm sure he was dancing his way to the Pearly Gates.Carol Hornby Goodin
Christopher Grimes
April 26, 2013
My deepest sympathy goes out to your family. Our families had so many fun times together. Just the other day I watched the Wurlitzer reunion video and it brought back so many great memories of your Dad (and Mom). I was so excited when he was able to attend his class reunion. Our family was sadden to hear of his passing, but he is at peace. I will you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. Your Dad will be greatly missed. Love Always Chris
Amanda Birnbaum (Benson)
April 22, 2013
I love you, Dad, and miss you terribly. But our loss is Heaven's gain. Rest in Peace.
Sherryl Gubernator-Bannister
April 21, 2013
I also grew up on 6th street...We were fortunate to grow up in those days. Richard was always a great neighbor and friend. R.I.P. Dick. God bless you and your family.
Kristin Benson Dominguez
April 20, 2013
Our family is sincerely appreciative of all the beautiful cards, comments and calls. Our Dad is finally at rest and in peace. We miss you, Dad!
Carol Johnson Dayton
April 19, 2013
Richard was a very special childhood friend of mine and I will miss him in my life. I am so glad that we were able to see each other in later years. Jim and I send our condolences and prayers to his family.
Carol Johnson Dayton
April 19, 2013
Richard was a very special childhood friend of mine. I have many wonderful memories of growing up on north 6th street and being part of the 6th street gang. It was a wonderful time of life. I am glad that I had a chance to see Richard again in later years. I will miss him. Jim and I will keep you and your family and in our thoughts and prayers.
Suzanne Silverman
April 19, 2013
Dear Barb - So sorry to hear of Dick's
death. Brings back lots of memories of
when your family lived in DeKalb. Our parents where such good friends and your Mom was such a wonderful pianist.
That's where your brother got his musical talent. My sympathy to his family. Suzanne Stefani Silverman
Roger Palmer
April 19, 2013
My condolences to the family from one of the old 6th st. gang. What fun time we all had in that neighbohood. Dick was a good freind an very tallented. Sorry I was not able to keep in touch as much as I should have. Many good times to remember. Again my condolences to the family .
MARILYN ROWE
April 19, 2013
HELLO BARB AND FAMILY....SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT DICK...DIDN'T KNOW HIM SO WELL BUT TREASURE THE MEMORIES OF THE TIMES AND THE FRIENDSHIP WE SHARED. THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS
Peggy Rozycki Rauhut
April 19, 2013
Prayers & sympathy to the Benson family from an old friend. Fond memories of Richard's love of music.
James N. Anderson
April 19, 2013
Rich was a life long friend from the time we were little kids. HIs love of music, coupled with his good nature and infectious humor, had an uplifting effect upon everyone. He will be missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Our sincere condolences to the entire Benson family. God bless you all!
Brad Bluhm
April 19, 2013
Lots of fond memories at DHS and playing trombone with him in the band. Will miss him.
Bob & Sue Rozycki
April 18, 2013
Dick was a true Ambassador of Music. He was pleasure to work with at Wurlitzer and a good friend. Our condolences to the family.
Lauren Miller
April 18, 2013
Dear Kristin, JJ, and family:
I'll miss Dick as a long-time personal friend and I'll greatly miss the many visits we were able to have over the last few years. God bless you all.
Lauren Miller
Linda Spencer-MacReynolds
April 17, 2013
Dear Kristin and family,
The DeKalb High School Class of 1959 lost a very talented and special friend. What fun we had dancing the nights away to the music of Dick's band. We would get our mothers to drive us to wherever Dick was playing. My thoughts and prayers to all the family. The world has lost a very special person and I have lost a very special friend. God bless and RIP.
Linda Spencer MacReynolds
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