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Richard Dennis Benson was born August 1, 1936 to parents Helmer and Evelyn Benson on a farm near North Branch, Minnesota. He was one of six children.

Richard graduated from North Branch High School in 1954 at age 17. His first paying job was as a milk truck driver for Roy Nelson going to different farms in the Sunrise area picking up milk for delivery to North Branch Creamery. Between the years of 1954 to 1956, he worked as a Carpenter’s Helper in Roseville, and a Drill Press Operator at Scott-Atwater in St. Paul.  On March 16, 1956, he began employment at Honeywell for $1.60 per hour. He also had part time jobs as an Insurance Agent, Income Tax Consultant, plus others during his time at Honeywell. He was a Plastic Molder and Die Cast Operator for many years until he was promoted to supervisor at Honeywell. In 1990 he was awarded the Harry Long Memorial Award for Outstanding Service for Honeywell. He retired in March of 1993 at 57 years old. 

Richard met his lovely wife, Janet, in February of 1957 and they were married August 3, 1957. This marriage was blessed with five sons: Craig (Denise), Michael (Teresa), Bryan (Ann), Jeffrey, and David (Kris). They moved many times until settling in Stacy, Minnesota in October of 1966.

Richard enjoyed fishing, playing softball, playing golf, and working in the yard. He loved his five sons and all of his grandchildren and great grandchildren. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, brother Darrell, and daughter-in-law June.  Survived by grandchildren; Lindsey (Steve), Ashley (Jason), Daniel (Rebecca), Trevin (P.K.), Fearon (Ryan), Andrew, Morgan, and Kole;  great grandchildren, Henry, Rhett, Jaley, Addison, Kenley, Brooklyn, Carson, Tucker, Jaxon, Kora, Krew, Levi  and many nieces and nephews; his siblings, Elton (Jeanette), Darrell, Virginia, Karen and Harold. 

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, December 28, 2024 at Chisago Lakes Baptist Church in Chisago City.  Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at church on Saturday.  Interment will follow at Kost Cemetery in Kost.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Grandstrand Funeral Home and Cremation Service in North Branch. www.grandstrand fh.com.

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