Benjamin "Ben" Benson Jr.

Benjamin “Ben” Benson, born July 31, 1943, passed away peacefully on June 22, 2026, surrounded by loving family. Ben lived a life defined by devotion to his family, friends, and service to his community.

Ben believed deeply in the importance of family. He will be profoundly missed by his devoted wife, Sylvia; and their children Laura (Todd), Brian (Gena), Michelle (Mike), Dionne, and Brett (Lauren); and his cherished grandchildren Ben, Eli, Daniel, Elly, Abby, and Riley. He is also survived by his sisters Nancy, Sue (Jim), Jill, Mary (Bob), and Jackie (Scott), along with many nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.

Ben never met a stranger. He built lifelong friendship and community through his warmth, humor, and unwavering commitment to tradition. He loved spending time with friends and family playing games from cribbage to bocce ball. He especially loved Neil Diamond concerns, The Phantom of the Opera, and he never missed the Boys High School Hockey Tournament.

Additionally, he treasured annual Fishing Opener trips to Lake Winnibigoshish, sprint and stock car racing at Cedar Lake Speedway and the Knoxville Nationals, and enjoyed annual hunting trips in Two Harbors. These traditions were not just pastimes - they were the foundation of lifelong friendships and memories.

Maintaining contact with friends and family was very important to Ben. He organized dinners and outings often. He maintained a list of birthdays, sending 80 or more cards every year to ensure people knew how much they were loved by him.

Ben attended St. Thomas High School and the University of Minnesota. Throughout his life, Ben embraced many roles, but he took the greatest pride in the 50-year concession business he built serving bratwurst at the Minnesota State Fair. What began as a business became a tradition where generations of families gathered year after year.

He also believed strongly in giving back to his community. He proudly served community of Lino Lakes as Mayor from 1982 to 1989, working tirelessly to strengthen the city he loved.

Ben’s greatest legacy is the family he cherished, the friendships he nurtured, the traditions he created, and the community he helped build. His laughter, generosity, and steadfast presence will be deeply missed, but his influence will continue through those who loved him.

A wake will be held on Tuesday, June 30 from 5:00 – 7:00 pm. A Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, July 1 at 11:00 with Visitation beginning at 10:00 am. Both services will take place at St. Pius X Catholic Church in White Bear Lake, Minnesota.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Herb Brooks Foundation or the Hendrickson Foundation.