Mark L. Benson

Mark Lee Benson, 65, of Benton Harbor passed away Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023 at Corwell Health Lakeland Hospital in St. Joseph.

An in-person celebration of life gathering will be announced and held at a later date. Until then, please join the Mark Benson celebration of life Facebook page at www.facebook.com/groups/656521762821960 to share your photos and memories with the family and the group. Private burial will take place in Riverview Cemetery in St. Joseph.

Memorial donations in Mark's name may be made to Hanson Hospice Center in Stevensville. Those wishing to sign Mark's memory book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.

Mark was born on May 5, 1957, in Angola, Ind., to Lee and Marcia (Tendick) Benson.

He graduated from St. Joseph High School, Class of 1975, where he participated in track and wrestling. After attending Olivet College, Mark joined his father in the family business, Benson Painting, which was founded in 1970. Mark eventually took over ownership, and continued to operate until the very end. He was very proud of his crew and work that they and he did.

Mark was a member of St. Joseph First United Methodist Church, where he volunteered his time with maintenance issues. In his free time, Mark enjoyed hunting and fishing with his father and many friends. He also enjoyed animals and being around children. Mark loved life and always wanted to learn about something new. Everyone he knew enjoyed his jokes and his sense of humor. Mark was loyal to his family and friends and was always willing to do for others. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Mark is survived by his long-time companion of 24 years, Velma Holliday, and her children which he considered as his own: Alisa Crayton, Willie Crayton, Ciera Simmons, Nefeterra Simmons – all of Benton Harbor, Carletta Simmons of Harvey, La.; 12 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; his mother, Marcia Benson of St. Joseph; his sister, Milisa (Dean) Johnson of Fort Wayne, Ind., his brother, David Benson of Benton Harbor; his niece Ashley (Eric) Keefer, and their girls Audrey and Aly Keefer.

He was preceded in death by his father, Lee Benson.