Obituary of Duane David Benson

Duane David Benson passed away peacefully on December 24th with his family by his side in Lake Havasu City, AZ after a hard fought battle with cancer. Born October 5, 1933, Duane grew up in Butte, MT the oldest of his four siblings. He was drafted into the Army during the Korean War. While en route to the conflict by troop ship the Armistice was enacted and he was rerouted to Germany for the remainder of his enlistment. Upon his returning to Butte, Duane married his best friend and soul mate, Josephine Sodja. At an early age, he found his place in the road construction trade. He was involved in the building and paving of many of the roads and highways throughout Montana working for various contractors. His favorite was Jim Gilman Construction where he worked for over 25 years. After his so-called retirement, he was Arizona bound for the sunshine and warm weather in the winter, but he always came back to work Montana's highways in the summer until he could no longer keep up with the long hours. Young Jimmy would drive Duane right up to the equipment so he could be in the seat that he loved. Preceding him in death were his mother, Sophie; father, Art; sister, Nancy; sister-in-law, Jo-Anne Benson; nephew, Brad Benson and brother-in-law, Joe Guay. In addition to his wife, Jo, he leaves behind his son, Tom and Tom's family; grandson, Justin Benson (Megan), and their children, Gunnar and Joey; granddaughter, Kellyi Benson. Also, daughter, Linda and Linda's family; grandsons, Tom Horne (Jennie), Zack Horne (Bri) and their children, Bladen and Eleye. Also, brother, Art Benson; sisters, Becky Taylor and Bonnie Guay; special couch partner, shitzu Sophie; special niece, Wendy; special friends, Jim and Chloe Gilman; and young Jim and LaRae; and numerous other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. He dearly loved them all. Cremation will occur in Lake Havasu City, AZ. A future date for family graveside services in Butte, MT will be determined. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be sent to Camp Mak-A-Dream in Duane's behalf. The Children's Oncology Camp Foundation has always been dear to his heart for their work with the children with cancer. It's O.K. Dad…time to "Take your marbles and go home." Children's Oncology Camp foundation - Camp Mak-A-Dream, PO Box 1450; Missoula, MT 59806. www.campdream.org. Services were placed in the care of Lietz-Fraze Funeral Home and Crematory. Thoughts and condolences may be sent to the family at www.lietz-frazefuneralhome.com.