Michael Benson

Michael Gordon Benson

1951-2024

"Get a tee time son. . . . I'm coming your way!"

On June 22, we lost our loving father, Papa, brother, uncle, and friend, Michael Gordon Benson. He passed away peacefully in his home after a 12 year battle with cancer that he fought with dignity and grace.

Mike was born on November 21, 1951, in Salt Lake City to Melvin J. and Maurine June Openshaw Benson. He was the middle child of five children. Mike grew up in Granger (West Valley City), Utah, where he had a playful childhood and made many friends and memories.

Mike graduated from Granger High School in 1970. After high school, he worked as a groundskeeper at Derk's Field before starting his career. He started with the Union in 1972 as a groundman, and became a Journeyman Lineman in 1979. He was a loyal and proud member of IBEW Local 57, and showed pride in the work he accomplished. He was quick to point out to others the projects he had worked on. He retired in 2012, but stayed active in the Union for some time.

Mike married Dixie Holliman in 1978 (later divorced). Together they had three children, Audra, Michael, and Kristen.

Mike enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He loved to play golf, hang with friends at Delton Lanes, watch a good western, and have a nice cold beer. He had a sweet tooth, and always had treats on hand.

Mike was a kind, caring, and helpful man. He put others above himself. He was very independent and somewhat stubborn, but this helped him through his battle with cancer. He had an amazing sense of humor and it showed even into his final days.

Mike is survived by daughters Audra and Kristen; son-in-law Geoff, daughter-in-law, Marlena, grandchildren Cash, Cruz, Cameron, Charlie, and Gordon. Brother Kelly (Marsha), sisters Janet (Craig) and Lori (Shawn), sister-in-law Rennetta Benson. Numerous loving nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by son, Michael; brother, Jeff, and parents.

Funeral services will be held Friday, June 28 at noon at McDougal Funeral Home, 4330 South Redwood Road, Taylorsville, Utah. The family will host a visitation prior to the funeral service from 11:00 am until 12:00 pm. Interment, Valley View Memorial Park.

"That's All Folks!"