Deanna Benson

1951 - 2019

Deanna Benson
Jan. 2, 1951 - Jan. 8, 2019
Resident of Gilroy
Deanna Tamburini Benson passed away peacefully on January 8, 2019, surrounded by her four daughters.
She was born in Rolo, Italy, to Enzo and Bruna Tamburini (neé Santini). She was raised on a farm with her sister, Zita, who remained her most cherished friend and trusted confidant throughout her life. In her youth, Deanna studied fashion and became an accomplished dressmaker. In 1977, her courageous spirit allowed love to transport her to a new life in California, where she lived for over forty years and raised four daughters. Recently, she welcomed the arrival of four grandchildren, whom she called the joys of her life.
Deanna was a paragon of kindness and grace. She cared unconditionally for her children and their partners, her grandchildren, and her furry companions as well. A believer of simple pleasures, Deanna had a keen sense for what mattered most in life. She particularly enjoyed reading the teachings of Pope John Paul II and making handmade tortellini for her family.
Her strong work ethic yielded more than ten years of tireless support for the small children of a local day care. For this she was cherished by many in her community and even in retirement thereafter, Deanna could not go to a local store without being lovingly approached by a child or parent who wished to give her hugs or thanks.
Deanna is survived by four daughters, Karen Benson, Sarah Rogers and her husband Tim, Lisa Voss and her husband Sean, Claire Benson and her fiancé David, as well as four grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, they ask that donations be made in her name to the CC alliance, www.ccalliance.org.


View the online memorial for Deanna  Benson