Kenneth Benson

Ken was born on July 26,1953 to Earl and Jean Benson in Red Deer, Alberta. He passed away peacefully in his home on Jan. 25,2024 at the age of 70 years. He will be lovingly remembered by his 4 children Kristina, Jacinda (Rob), Kenneth (Ashley) and Sean and 10 grandchildren. Also left to the mourn are his 4 sisters Beatrice, Donna, Sheila (Dan) and Peggy. Within the Benson family Ken was proud uncle to 6 nieces and nephews, 14 great nieces and nephews and 9 great, great nieces and nephews. Ken was pre-deceased by his parents, 2 brothers in law- Merle and Rex, a niece Lisa and a nephew Billy Joe.

Ken will be remembered for his kind and gentle demeanor. His warmth and genuine interest in people resulted in a myriad of friends. These traits will be his legacy. In the words of his daughter Jacinda, “You were so much to so many, badass car guy (back in the day), a great hunter and fisherman and the best fix-it and flip-it guy around. Your mellow attitude was appreciated. You will be missed. Your signatory closing to conversations was “Love you, ‘k, bye.”

Over the years. Ken worked diligently at a number of different occupations, including a wireline company out of Texas, the Deerehome, at Red Deer Coke Bottling as night foreman and in the shop at Spelman Signs. At the end of his working career, Ken was self-employed and became a prolific, energetic fix and flip mechanic, buyer, and seller. He and his sister, Peg, travelled the Central Alberta landscape doing business with farmers, Hutterite colonies, auction marts, mechanics, hunters, fishermen and other wheeler dealers. Thousands of small tools, ice augers, chain saws, quads, bikes, and sleds passed through Ken’s mechanical hands. He collected telephone numbers of buyers, sellers, mechanics, and leads for future deals. All these financial opportunities resulted in friendships and contacts and Kenny enjoyed acting as a source for transactions.

When health issues affected this form of employment, Ken took the opportunity to reconnect with family, bringing his 4 children closer together. He enjoyed family get-togethers, family reunions, celebrations, and memorials. At the close of the day, as his daily routines slowed, he would smile sincerely and say or imply “Love you, ‘k, bye!”

Cremation arrangements were held with Prairie Rose Cremation & Funeral Services. Ken will be laid to rest in the Alto Reste Memorial Cemetery.