Richard Benson Obituary

The family of Richard Dale Benson of Lakewood, CO. It is with great Sadness to announce that he passed away on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at the age of 92 years.

Richard was born in Jasper, Minnesota, on September 8, 1933. He was the 3rd child out of 6 children of Esther and Leonard Benson. Richard was well known as Dick, by his family and friends. As a young boy, his family called him Dicky.

Richard honorably served in the United States Air Forces from 1951-1956. This is when he met the woman that would change his life. After the service, Richard went to Central Business College for business at night while working for General Iron Works in Englewood, CO. He spent most of his career in the pipe, valve, and fitting business. He would go to many oil refineries and power plants. This took him to many different states that needed his expertise in the maintenance of pressure valves, piping, and fittings. He also solved the problem with the syrup from soda manufacturers corroding the steel pipes and changed their piping to Pyrex glass piping. Problem solved.

Then, in 1958, he started Dick's Maintenance Service at night for extra money. It is still in operation today under the name of Complete Janitorial and Maintenance, run by Richard's youngest son, Jeff Benson. Richard worked up to 10 months ago before he passed away. He valued honesty and trust. If he shook your hand, you knew that you could count on him to follow through and deliver.

In his spare time, he loved to fish and pheasant hunt. His main enjoyment was his Saint Bernards and his Olde English Sheep dogs, which he loved and spoiled. Don't forget little Penelope, who ruled the roost. Also, the foxes, birds, raccoons, and squirrels that enjoyed his treats.

Richard is survived by the love of his life, Joan Benson, who he married on October 10, 1953. They were married 72 years. His younger sister, Marna, and younger brother, Jan, and sister-in-law, Maria. His 3 sons, Stacy and daughter-in-law Debbie and Jeff. His brother and sister-in-law, Bobby and Sue. His grandsons, Rory and Reece, and great-grandson, Noah. Also, his son-in-law, Pete. He also leaves behind his very dear friend, Rob Neal, who was like a son, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by Ma and Pa Larson, who raised him. His mother, Esther, his father, Leonard, his oldest brother, Otts, his older sister, Dalores, and his younger brother, Stuart. His daughter, Amy, granddaughter, Denice, and grandson, Logan. Richard adored his family and was very proud.

A church service at South Broadway Christian Church, 23 Lincoln St., Denver, CO 80203, will be held on April 7th at 11:00 a.m. A Celebration of Life will follow at 12:30 at the church. You can call 303-722-4679 with any questions.

He will be greatly missed. This is not goodbye, but until we see each other again.