On Nov. 15, 2012, Arlene Benson was called home by our heavenly father to be reunited with Jim - her husband of 53 years, who passed only 10 days earlier. Arlene was born in Renoon July 9, 1931.
During her 81 years Arlene led a very full and enjoyable life. She was proud to be a 1949 graduate from Pershing County High School and made a career as an executive secretary to the superintendent of that school district, the CEO of Kennecott Copper Cooperation, and the warden of Ely State Prison. She was a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother, and was an active member in community organizations such as Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, Ladies' Auxiliary, the Lutheran Church, serving as treasurer and organist, Little Girls' Softball coordinator, Coffee Club Bowling and the Ely Riding Club.
Along with her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, Martha and Frank Bernd, sisters Iva Mae and Mabel, and brother Francis.
Arlene married Jim Benson on Dec. 18, 1959, and is survived by her children Jim (Pauline) Benson, Dave Laca, Tom (Linda) Benson, Danny Benson (Tiffany Olsen), Karen (Sam) Wines, and Susie (Sam) Leyba. She is a proud grandparent to Brian, Paul, Marie, Nick, Brett, Katie, Lyndi, Sadie, Jamie, Jessie, Maggie, Joey, and great-grandsons Bryant and soon-to-arrive Baby Laca. She also leaves numerous nieces and nephews.
Arlene's interests varied from reading, traveling, camping, playing piano, crosswords, 49er football games, but most of all caring for her family. She could always be found in the stands at ball games supporting her children and grandchildren, usually with a scorebook in hand.
The last 10 years of Arlene's life presented her with numerous trials and tribulations, which she took on with the utmost courage, grace, and dedication. Thank you to the many people who reached out to support Arlene in her times of need, especially the caring members of the Lutheran Church.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Breast Cancer Foundation, 1220 B East Joppa Road, Suite 332, Baltimore, MD 21286, (877) 323-4226.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Nov. 30 at the Immanuel Lutheran Church at 1 p.m. with a luncheon to follow at the Ely Elks' Lodge in Ely.
Arlene will be dearly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
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