Douglas Benson

Douglas Paul Benson (Doug the Bug) October 14, 1948-September 25, 2025 Douglas Paul Benson died on September 25, 2025 at Methodist Hospital in St. Louis Park surrounded by family. He was born on October 14, 1948 in Sleepy Eye, MN to Russell and Annette Benson. As a child, he lived in Mankato, Huron, SD, Gaylord, Sebeka and Lake Bronson, before his family settled in Paynesville in 1964. Doug graduated from Paynesville High School in 1967 and went on to the United States Navy from 1967-1971. He served aboard the USS Saratoga. Doug graduated in 1974 from St. Cloud Technical College (carpentry). Doug married Linda Bluhm in 1972 and together they had 2 children, Kristi and Gina. During his life, Doug operated the Koronis Cinema, owned and operated Benson Insulation with his brother Richard, owned/operated Montgomery Ward stores in Paynesville and Willmar, and started/operated Better Buy Furniture in Paynesville. Along with running several businesses, Doug was a self-employed carpenter and " jack of all trades". Doug enjoyed fixing, building, tinkering, dancing, whistling, telling stories and visiting with friends and family as well as perfect strangers. He loved spending time with his family and attending his grandchildren's sporting events. Doug was known for his playful personality, ability to talk to anyone, kindness and willingness to help people, easy-going and carefree demeanor and of course, his epic dance moves! He is survived by daughters, Kristi Freeman (Todd) and Gina Benson-Mitchell (Adrian), grandchildren, Kendall Freeman, Araya, Zion, Kalani and Rayn Mitchell, sister, Lorrie Torbenson (Kevin), sister-in-law, Melinda Nevins and brother-in-law, Ken Williams. Doug was preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Annette Benson, brother, Richard, sister, Rhonda and partner, Deb Worthington. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 3 PM on Saturday, October 25th at Washburn-McReavy at 5125 W Broadway Ave Crystal, MN. Visitation will begin one hour prior and fellowship will follow the service. Memorials may be made to the Cure Alzheimer's Fund or to the organization of your choice.