Joan Marie Benson

Joan Marie Benson passed away September 14, 2011 in Cherokee, Iowa after a long and courageous battle against cancer. She was born August 26, 1939 in Cherokee, the daughter of Wilbert and Ruth George.



After graduating from Quimby High School in 1958 as salutatorian, she worked at Sioux Valley Hospital in the medical records area. In addition, she worked at several financial institutions in the Cherokee area, including Sioux Valley S&L, Central Trust and Central Bank. She was a part owner and employed by Benson Oil of Cherokee from the late 1960?s to the early 1980?s.



Her greatest personal accomplishment was raising six boys and giving them the love and support to become successful in life. Joan was a long-time member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church of Cherokee and was active in volunteering for events at the church. She was also a member of local women?s groups, the Super Sisters, Red Hat Society, and her Thursday night dinner group of Jan, Elaine and Phyllis.



Joan will be missed by a large family which was the source of much pride and joy in her life; Her sons Brad (Renae) Benson of Urbandale, Dan Benson of Seattle, WA, Greg (Darcy) Benson of Spencer, Mark (Shelley) Benson of Meriden, Mike Benson of Overland Park, KS, and Todd (Melanie) Benson of Overland Park, KS. She is also survived by 18 grandchildren: Julia, Abagale, Shane, Bryce, Nathan, Blake, Ashley, Nicole, Gary, Traci, Eric, McKayla, Morgan, Kendal, Jack, Joe, Trey, and Harper and two great grandchildren: Presley, Kaeley. She is also survived by her mother Ruth George of Cherokee, two sisters Shirley George of Cherokee and Mary Kay France of Urbandale. She was preceded in death by her father Wilbert.