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Kenneth Benson Obituary
Aug 2, 1929-Feb 10, 2019
Kenneth (Ken) Benson, age 89, died at the Idaho State Veterans Home in Boise in the early morning of Sunday, February 10th, 2019, of natural causes. Ken was born in New Lisbon Wisconsin on August 2, 1929, and raised on his parent's dairy farm. Ken attended the University of Wisconsin where he studied and met his wife of 67 years, Sally. He then deployed to Korea and Japan for the Korean War, assigned to the new psychological warfare unit, First Radio Broadcasting and Leaflet Group. He helped write and produce radio shows under the callsign "The Voice of the United Nations Command". Upon his return, he attended law school at the University of Wisconsin.
In 1958 Ken answered a blind ad in the Wall Street Journal which led to a 23-year career at Kohler Company. He started in the legal department and ended his career as Senior Vice-President. After leaving Kohler, he joined Vollrath Company, where he retired as President and Chief Operating Officer in 1989. Ken believed strongly in serving his community. During his 33 years in Sheboygan, he participated on 12 boards of community organizations. He not only served on the Board of the Sheboygan Community Players but acted in numerous plays.
After retirement, Ken and Sally moved to Pine Knoll Shores, NC where they were instrumental in building St. Francis of the Sea Episcopal Church. In 2007, Ken and Sally moved to Boise to live closer to their youngest son and his family. Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Otillia (Olson) and his sister, Mildred (Mack). He is survived by his wife Alice (Sally), and children, Jennifer of Boise, Elizabeth (Daniel) Benson Forer of Encino, CA, Kenneth (Lavonne) of Minneapolis, Jonathan of Ely, MN, Nathan (Jessica) of Boise, and seven grandsons – Benjamin and Nathaniel Forer, Carl, Dylan, Elijah, Alex and Isaac Benson. We thank the Idaho State Veterans Home and Maria Toscano, Leslie Anderson, Lori Charlier for their loving care of Ken. Arrangements by the Idaho Cremation Society. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Idaho State Veterans Home, 20 Collins Rd, Boise, ID 83702.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Kenneth Benson
Sponsored by The Idaho Statesman.
April 16, 2019
Heartfelt condolences to Sally, Jenny, Liz, Ken, Jon and Nate.
--Stefanie Rose
Lori Charlier
February 23, 2019
It was a pleasure to spend time in Ken's home with his family. The members of his family were an amazing example of love and support. May God's peace and comfort be upon you all.
Alene Zufelt
February 18, 2019
So sorry to hear of Ken's passing. He and Sally were the first people I met when my husband, Weldon, and I first moved to Kohler in April, 1970. Ken was a fine man, a wonderful boss, great mind, and a great mentor. Ken spoke at my husband's funeral in 2004. It's an end of an era. Sheboygan County was lucky to have the Benson family for the years they were there. Goodbye, dear man.
Chuck Lightcap
February 15, 2019
Ken was a dear friend to me, and so many others.
I met him in 1970 at the Kohler Co., and he became not only a friend, but a mentor and incredible example for all to emulate. He was a man of unquestionable honesty, forthrightness, and integrity. I left Kohler in 1982, and joined Ken at The Vollrath Company.
I am truly blessed to have known Ken, Sally, and their family...his memory will never fade.
May God Bless you,
Chuck
Jerry Baumann
February 15, 2019
I had the pleasure of working with Ken at The Vollrath Co. in the 1980's. He helped guide my carrier path. Ken was a true gentleman, a born leader and I enjoyed his stories and sense of humor! My condolences to Sally, Jennifer and the whole family.
AS
February 14, 2019
My sincere condolences to the family and friends. May the God of all consolation give you comfort hope and peace during this time of sorrow. Jeremiah 29:11,12
Linda Mc
February 13, 2019
May the found memories of your loved one sustain your family at this time. May you also receive comfort from what is stated at 1 Peter 5:6,7.
Linda Mc
February 13, 2019
May the found memories of your loved one sustain your family at this time. May you also receive comfort from what is stated at 1 Peter 5:6,7.
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