Obituary
Roger Ortley Benson
Roger Ortley Benson 73 passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family, August 17 2019, at Gundersen Health System.
Roger was born, June 4 1946 to Roger E. and Sophie D. (Schuirmann) Benson in La Crosse WI. He was a lifetime resident of La Crosse and graduated from Logan High School in 1964. Roger worked for Lester Greene and Son Trucking for 31 years and then for Milestone Materials for 5 years where he retired from in 2003.
Roger married the love of his life, Elaine D Heckelbeck on March 14 1964. They shared 55 wonderful years together. Roger enjoyed snowmobiling, hunting and fishing most often done with his family. His favorite activity was cheering on his grandchildren from the sidelines of their sporting events.
Roger is survived by his wife Elaine Benson and his three children, Kimberly (Albert) Domingue of La Crosse, WI, Michelle (Steve) Smith of Farmington, MN and Roger (April) Benson of La Crescent, MN. His six grandchildren Kayla, Makayla, Justin, Mitchell, Ella and William. His Siblings Bonnie (Ben) Benson of Harleton, TX, Ruby Coady of La Crosse, WI, Linda (Dan) Stremcha of La Crosse, WI, Gary (Patsy) Benson of Sioux City, IA, Sandra (Dan) Sypersma of Elizabeth, CO, and Wayne (Jeed) Benson of Udon Thani, Thailand. His sisters-in-law Sherry (Robert) Hyer of Tulsa OK, and Alisa (Steve) Sokolik of Trempealeau, WI; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Roger is preceded in death by his parents and sister Ruth Benson; sister-in-law, Patricia Piepenhagen; brother-in-law, Michael Heckelbeck.
The family would like to express great gratitude to Gundersen Hospice, Interventional Radiology, Infusion Services and 6thfloor Hospital Staff for their kind and compassionate care they gave to Roger.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, August 27, 2019 at The Gathering Place, 133 Mason St. Onalaska, with visitation from 10:00 am until the time of the service with a reception to follow. Paul Fisher will officiate.
To view Roger’s memorial tribute video, please use the following link. https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/FB3MXFFTSQLPLYTG?e=1
Roger, a dear cousin in law who made my dear cousin Elaine the happiest person I knew for 55 years. Rest in peace dear Roger and please say hello to everyone you see who has preceded you and we know that are waiting for all of us as our time comes due. Lynnette Reece
Roger was a good man. He always seemed to put family first. I always saw such love, respect and compassion in you both for each other. He will be missed by many.
We send peace and heartfelt love to you and your family.
I love you Uncle Roger and going to miss you. Say hello to Joseph in heaven. My prayers and heart are with my family. God bless them
Condolences to Roger’s family at this sad time. We share your grief, and pray for comfort for you. Roger was a good man who loved his family without reservation, and he will be missed.
rest in peace Roger I worked with the best person i work with. always miss you had the best time working with you well not forget you