Dennis W. Benson

Dennis W. Benson, 94 of New London, died Tuesday, October 24, 2023 at Brookdale Assisted Living in Willmar.  Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, October 30, 2023 at Peace Lutheran Church in New London.  Visitation will be from 4-6 p.m. Sunday at the church and for one hour prior to the service at church.  Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery.

Dennis William Benson was born on June 17, 1929 in New London, the son of Clarence and Verdna (Monson) Benson.  He was baptized and confirmed at Lebanon Lutheran Church.  He grew up in New London where he graduated from New London High School in 1947.  After school he began working for First State Bank of New London until he was drafted in the US Army.  He served his country during the Korean War and was stationed in Japan until his honorable discharge on March 30, 1953.  On May 26, 1956, Denny was united in marriage to Ellen Mae Rupp at Lebanon Lutheran Church.  This union was blessed with a son and daughter.  They made their home in New London where he worked in banking until purchasing the First State Bank of New London in 1977.  He retired in 1988, and they split their time between Arizona and their home on Lake Andrew. 

Denny enjoyed bowling, fishing, hunting, golfing and spending time with his family and friends.    He was a founding member of the Little Crow Ski Team and local hunting club.  He was a volunteer fire firefighter for the New London Fire Department for 20 years, served as past commander of the New London American Legion and a member of Belgrade VFW. 

Denny is survived by his wife of 67 years, Ellen; children, Randy Benson and Lisa Benson-Smith; honorary daughter, Deb (Jack) Koerner; grandchildren, Peter, Drake, Joel and Jennifer; great-grandchildren, Jayce, Max and Tessa; beloved dog, Rocky and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; infant grandson, Kyle; and brother, Chuck. 

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