Tom

Thomas George Benson, age 76, passed away peacefully on February 3, 2026, surrounded by his family at Mercy Hospital in Coon Rapids, MN.

Tom married Laura Obie in 1970, and together they welcomed their daughter, Tonia. In 1979, he married Carla Sobolik, and they had three children: Jericho, Jordan, and Seth. Tom deeply adored his five grandchildren, who brought immense joy to his life.

A lifelong learner, Tom studied a wide range of topics, always driven by curiosity and a desire to understand the world more deeply. He worked many years in construction, but it was his time at the Bonnie Prudden School of Myotherapy and Exercise that inspired one of his proudest accomplishments-founding the Benson Pain Prevention Center, where he shared his passion for healing and helping others.

Tom also spent decades as a dedicated paperboy for the Star Tribune and later worked at Clocktower Wine and Spirits. His work ethic, humor, and unique spirit left lasting impressions everywhere he went.

Tom was an exercise fanatic, and loved coaching and teaching. He served as a Montessori teacher in Coon Rapids and volunteered in the Minneapolis School District, leading exercise programs for children. Tom was also a beloved youth hockey coach, and his playful nature and genuine love for kids made him a natural teacher and mentor.

Spiritually, Tom was always seeking a deeper connection with God. He spent countless hours in meditation and prayer at the Adoration Chapel at Epiphany Catholic Church. He often handed out prayer cards, encouraged strangers to "go easy on the booze," and gently tried to guide others toward the Catholic faith he cherished.

Tom was truly one of a kind-a seeker of knowledge, a thinker, a healer, and forever a kid at heart. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who were touched by his generous soul.

Tom is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Carla; children, Tonia (Travis) Gunderson, Jericho, Jordan (Josh) Sundeen, Seth; grandchildren, Cally Gunderson, Carisa Gunderson, Cash Sundeen, Cailyn Sundeen, Coen Sundeen; siblings, Mike (Nancy), Pam Suedel, Paulette (Richard) Suedel, Priscilla (Doug) Thomsen; sisters-in-law, Winona, JoAnne; brother-in-law, Frank Swangler; and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

He is preceded in death by parents, Charles and Edna; siblings, Richard, John (Dot), Pat Swangler, Prudence (David) Nelson, and Eric.

Mass of Christian Burial to be held Friday February 13th, 10:30am with visitation one hour prior at The Church of The Epiphany, 1900 111th Ave NW, Coon Rapids. Visitation also to be held the evening of Thursday, February 12th, 4-7pm at the Washburn-McReavy Coon Rapids Chapel, 1827 Coon Rapids Blvd NW, Coon Rapids.