Montevideo Man Bennie Benson Remembered for Lifelong Dedication to Community

Bennie Benson, who passed away at age 80, was known for his strong work ethic, love of nature, and involvement in local programs.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Bennie Benson, a longtime resident of Montevideo, Minnesota, passed away at the age of 80 on March 6, 2026. Benson was remembered for his lifelong dedication to his community, including his work ethic, love of nature, and involvement in local programs like the Montevideo Let's Go Fishing program and the Adults with Disabilities Montevideo program. He was also known for his volunteer work, such as collecting pop can tabs for the Ronald McDonald House and sharpening pencils for local elementary schools.

Why it matters

Bennie Benson's story highlights the importance of community-based programs and services that support individuals with disabilities, allowing them to live fulfilling lives and contribute to their local communities. His dedication to volunteering and participating in local initiatives also demonstrates the positive impact that one person can have on their community.

The details

Benson grew up on a family farm in Cottonwood, Minnesota, where he was an active participant in farm work. He later attended the Chippewa-Yellow Medicine Developmental Achievement Center in Montevideo, riding a 76-mile round trip bus route every weekday. In 1978, he moved to REM-Montevideo and later to an apartment in Montevideo, where he was supported by services through Onward Services for 37 years. Benson had a lawn mowing business for several years and worked at Heartland Industries, including at the Second Time Around thrift store, until his retirement in 2019.

  • Bennie Benson passed away on March 6, 2026.
  • Visitation with the family will be on Friday, March 13, 2026, from 4 to 6 PM at the J.H. Lynner Funeral Home in Clarkfield.
  • Visitation will continue on Saturday, March 14, at 12 PM at Salem Lutheran Church, Montevideo, followed by a service celebrating Bennie's life at 1 PM.
  • Interment will follow the service at St. Lucas Lutheran Cemetery, rural Cottonwood, MN.

The players

Bennie Benson

A longtime resident of Montevideo, Minnesota, who was known for his strong work ethic, love of nature, and involvement in local programs.

Betty and Tim Christensen

Bennie's sister and brother-in-law.

Onward Services

The organization that provided services to Bennie Benson for 37 years, helping him to live his best life.

Heartland Industries

The organization where Bennie Benson worked as a supported employee, including at the Second Time Around thrift store.

Jennifer Husby

Bennie's social worker of 23 years.

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What they’re saying

“Our family will never be able to express the gratitude we feel for the staff of Onward Services in helping Bennie to live his best life, their dedication over the years is unmatched.”

— Betty and Tim Christensen, Bennie's sister and brother-in-law (marshallradio.net)

What’s next

The funeral service celebrating Bennie's life will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at 1 PM at Salem Lutheran Church in Montevideo.

The takeaway

Bennie Benson's story is a testament to the power of community-based programs and services that support individuals with disabilities, allowing them to live fulfilling lives and make meaningful contributions to their local communities. His dedication to volunteering and participating in local initiatives is an inspiration to others, and his legacy will continue to positively impact the Montevideo community.