Benedict "Ben" Benson

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Ben Benson at the age of 91 on February 8, 2025, a beloved husband, father, and Afi. Born on July 15, 1933, Ben lived a life full of love, laughter, hard work and dedication to his family.

Ben is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Gail, who stood by his side through all of life's adventures. They married on March 25, 1972, and Ben always referred to 1972 as his lucky year, the year he got hydro, telephone and a wife. Together they built a life filled with cherished memories and unwavering support. They were partners in life, and for over 50 years, they enjoyed ranching and commercial fishing together.  Gail cared for Ben at home until his 90th birthday when he moved to the Winnipegosis Hospital and Personal Care Home. 

Ben was a loving father to his son Brent (Candice) and daughter Jenny (Mike) Krentz He was also a proud Afi to Garret, Abi, Brady, Shayna, and Katie. Ben devoted his life to his family, and his stories of the ‘olden days’ and back rubs will be forever remembered by them.  He could be found watching his grandchildren competing in their many activities across Manitoba.  It was the only time that the work could wait.

Ben was born in Winnipegosis, the second youngest of 9 children to John and Dora Benson and spent his entire life ranching at Pleasant Hill Ranch on Red Deer Point. He worked with his siblings and his Momma and Daddy until they retired and then with his wife, children and grandchildren, moving to town at the age of 80.  His family all have special memories of working with him, whether in the field, chasing cows or visiting the new calves.  He dedicated his life to ensure the legacy lived on, celebrating the ranch’s centennial in 2017 and passing the torch to his son Brent.  He knew every cow and horse and where every rock was in the many hay meadows.  Ben loved all animals and always had a dog at his side. He saw the ranch through floods and dry years and never stopped loving life there.   His love for commercial fishing during the winter months saw him fishing for ‘fun’ until he turned 90, running the ice auger by himself at 88. His commitment to his work was evident in everything he did, and he was respected and admired by all who knew him. Ben worked tirelessly until the age of 90 and was still worried about his cows and the horses until his last days.

Ben loved being around people and was always excited when any of his or Gail’s parents, siblings or nieces and nephews came to visit.  He would have daily calls with his parents, Leona, Freda and Laura to discuss what was happening around the ranch and with the rest of the family.  His signature move was to do this when it was time for dishes to be done.  There was rarely a day a game of cards wasn’t played whether it was a family game of guts, cribbage and even playing solitaire while he waited for a cow to calf.  He enjoyed curling and loved throwing a heater down the ice, the challenge was always for the sweepers to keep up with the rock.  Once he was old enough to play on the senior’s baseball team he would be found traveling around Manitoba to the MSOS games.

Ben’s hospitality was well known and if anyone came anywhere near the house you were ushered in for coffee whether you were family, the grader operator, bus driver or someone that came down the road for a drive.  He would wave you to come in and get a pot of coffee brewing and some of Gail’s delicious baking on the table, always making you feel welcome.

He will be remembered for his teasing nature, his strong work ethic, and his unwavering love for his family. You always knew he liked you if he was teasing you. Ben's legacy will live on through his children and grandchildren, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He leaves to mourn his sister Leona Namaka, sisters- in-law Myrtle Benson, Ruth (Jack) Skogan, brothers-in-law Jim (Wendy) Dyck, Alan (Lorraine) Dyck, and Larry Dyck and numerous nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews and honorary son Lionel (Monica) Janzen. 

A Funeral Service was held for Benedict on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 at 2:00 pm from the Winnipegosis Elk's Hall in Winnipegosis with Pat Langlois officiating.  

Interment will follow at a later date .

Should friends so desire, donations in memory of Benedict may be made to the Mossey River Community Fund or a charity of one's choice.
 

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