Douglas Carl Benson

After a hard month of health struggles-including learning that he had stage 4 melanoma, then suffering a fall that resulted in a broken arm and hip, leaving him in severe pain-Douglas Carl Benson was able to spend his final day surrounded by loved ones, pain-free and joking around with them before returning to his Heavenly Father. He passed away peacefully on June 14, 2025, at the age of 87.

Born on June 5, 1938, in Salt Lake City, Utah, Doug was raised on a mink ranch in West Jordan with his four brothers and two sisters. A lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Doug first served a regional mission in the Salt Lake valley and then a full-time mission in Argentina for 2 ½ years. After returning home, he attended the University of Utah, where he met and married Susan Spencer, his wife of 62 years.

Doug had a deep love for the Savior and was committed to living the principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ. His faith guided every aspect of his life, and he found joy in sharing it with those around him. Doug served in two consecutive bishoprics, where he was known for his unwavering dedication to helping others. He also served faithfully in the Jordan River Temple for eight years, finding peace and fulfillment in his temple service. Doug’s desire to spread the gospel and serve his Heavenly Father was a defining characteristic, and he cherished every opportunity to serve others spiritually and uplift them in their journey of faith.

Doug was also a pioneer in emergency medical care, becoming one of the first nine paramedics in both small and large medical emergencies.

After retirement, Doug followed his passion for aviation, building an RV-6 airplane alongside his wife Suzy-affectionately known as “Rosy the Riveter.” He had a deep love of history, particularly World War II. Having a gift for all things mechanical, he was always fixing a car, building something from scratch, or modifying a neighbor’s home. Doug had an uncanny ability to “MacGyver” nearly anything.

His generosity and quiet service defined his life. From clearing snow of neighborhood driveways to making home repairs for friends and family, Doug found joy in lifting others. His legacy is one of love, ingenuity, and service.

He is survived by his wife, Susan Benson, their four children: Sean (Julie) Benson, Eric (Carrie) Benson, Jenny (Michael) Hunter and Casey (Jessi) Benson; and 16 grandchildren: Conner, Mariah, Andrew, Matthew, Katie, and Mark Benson; Emily, Megan, and Adam Benson; Riley, Madison, Josh and Zachary Hunter; and Kobe, Phoebe, and Paisley Benson.

Doug is further survived by his siblings: Bob Benson, Richard Benson, and Bonnie Busco.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Glenn and Virginia Benson, and by his siblings, Russell Benson, John Benson, and Annette Woolley.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, June 20, 2025, at 11:00 AM at The Latter-day Saint Ashbrook Ward, 6770 South 500 East, Murray, Utah. A viewing will precede the service from 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM. Additionally, there will be a viewing Thursday evening, June 19, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Memorial Murray Mortuary, 5850 South 900 East, Murray, Utah.

All who knew and loved Doug are welcome to attend and celebrate his remarkable life.

To view services remotely, please visit https://zoom.us/j/.97292592892