Michael William Benson (1946–2026)

Michael "Mike" W. Benson, 79, of East Grand Forks, Minnesota, entered eternal life surrounded by his family on Saturday, March 28, 2026. Guided by his devotion to the Catholic faith and his family, Mike transitioned peacefully to his heavenly home, held in the prayers and presence of those he loved most.

A Foundation of Faith and Service

Mike was born on August 31, 1946, in Grand Forks, North Dakota, to Charles Benson and Edna "Toots" (Carlson) Benson. Proud of his Norwegian heritage, he built his life on the values of hard work and service. After earning his degree in industrial drafting from the North Dakota State College of Science in Wahpeton, Mike served as an Army Supply Sergeant during the Vietnam War. His commitment to fellow veterans remained a priority throughout his life through his active involvement with the VFW and the American Legion.

Guided by Love and Duty

On August 9, 1969, Mike married Nancy Morris at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in East Grand Forks. This union was the cornerstone of his life. His love for Nancy and their children was a direct reflection of his faith, serving as the compass for every decision he made. Whether he was helping build missile silos across North Dakota or serving the community as a loan officer at Wells Fargo, Mike approached his work as a means to provide for and protect his family.

A Life of Stewardship and Joys

A dedicated member of St. Michael's Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus, Mike sought out Mass daily. He believed his life was a gift to be shared and modeled the call to be the hands and feet of Christ. Mike was exceptionally charitable, giving freely of his time, talents, and treasures. He found great joy in bringing Communion to nursing home residents and those unable to attend Mass.

Lake life was a pillar of Mike's spirit. For over 70 years, Cass Lake, Minnesota, served as a sanctuary. Starting at age nine, Mike worked alongside his family to develop the raw land. They cleared trees, hauled sand, and moved rocks by hand to build their family cabin. This early labor of love fostered a lifelong bond with the lake, where he cherished time with family, friends, and loved ones. This was a place that brought him immense joy and peace.

In his retirement, Mike and Nancy enjoyed discovering the joys of Fort Walton Beach, Florida. He loved traveling the country with his wife, taking long walks on the beautiful white sands, and spending peaceful hours relaxing in the hot tub.

Family and Fellowship

Mike's greatest earthly treasures were his children and grandchildren. He was a constant presence in their lives, teaching them by example how to live selflessly. He remained a "hopeless optimist" regarding his beloved Minnesota Vikings, standing as a loyal fan through every season.

Mike is survived by his wife, Nancy Benson; his children, Nathan (Heather) Benson, Aaron Benson, and Erica (Jeff) Hoverson; his grandchildren, Kayla and Logan Benson, Raina and Ronan Hoverson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Edna "Toots" Benson, his brothers, Dick, John, Tom, and Eric, his sisters, Patricia (Pat) Swangler and Prudence Nelson and his nephews, TJ Benson and Tyler Holder

Memorial Mass of Christian Burial: 2:00 p.m. Friday, April 10, 2026, in St. Michael's Catholic Church, Grand Forks, ND.
Family Greeting: 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, April 9, 2026, with a 7:00 p.m. Vigil Service in the Historic Norman Funeral Home Chapel. Family Greeting will continue for one hour prior to the liturgy in the church on Friday.
Interment: Resurrection Cemetery, East Grand Forks, MN
Military Honors: Will be accorded by members of the American Legion Post 157, the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3817, and the North Dakota Army National Guard.