Ione Marie Benson

Ione Marie Benson, age 91 of Spring Grove passed away suddenly on August 31, 2015 at Gundersen Lutheran Onalaska Renal in Onalaska, WI She was born April 10, 1924 in Spring Grove to Olaf and Anna (Kieland) Hagen. She was a lifelong Spring Grove area resident. Ione was a graduate of Spring Grove Public School, and attended business classes at what is now W.T.C. in La Crosse, WI On Dec. 26, 1943, Ione married Alden Benson at Trinity Lutheran Church in Spring Grove. Alden preceded Ione in death on Dec. 2, 1980. Ione worked at Control Data in her early years, and then as a Dietary Aide for Tweeten Memorial Hospital in Spring Grove for 17 years. She retired from that position in 1987. Ione was a dedicated member/officer in the American Legion Auxiliary for 67 years. She held the office of president for three terms. She worked with the Bloodmobile for 58 years during which time she received 3 certificates of appreciation for over 50 years of service. During that time she did numerous jobs including coordinator for 14 of those years. The American Red Cross awarded Ione the Circle of Excellance Award in 2004. For 19 years she volunteered in the Spring Grove Library, along with serving on the library board. In 1995, Ione was awarded the Mest Hoyaktet Dame (Most Honored Lady). Along with receiving the Spring Grove volunteer Award in 2006, she was also honored by receiving the 2007 Houston County Outstanding Citizen. Our mom not only loved and enjoyed family, but was blessed to develop so many special friendships throughout her entire life. Survivors include her children David Benson, Linda (Dennis) Williams, Ellen Murphy (fiance Steve Onsgard), Roger (Deb) Benson, and Diane (Bill) Pintz. Grandchildren: Suzi Benson, Scott (Glory) Benson, Keta Newhouse Benson, Brian (Katie) Williams, Jim (Aimee) Murphy, Lisa Murphy, Katie Rose Benson. Great-grandchildren; Lori Santos, Alaiyah Benson, Arliana Benson, Sandia Benson, Luciana Benson, Angelo Benson, Kaylee Williams, Ashton Williams, Mason Williams, Jack Williams, Ethan Murphy, Bree Murphy, Wyatt Murphy, Jaedyn Freshwater, Abbie Freshwater. Brother Owen (Gayle) Hagen, sister, Ardys Hurley, Sister-in-law Betty Benson, and brother-in-law Paul (Mary) Benson. Mom is also survived by many special nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband Alden, Ione was preceded in death by her grandson, Mike Williams, great-granddaughter Alyssa Williams and brothers-in-law Bob Hurley and Verdel Benson.

Ione Marie Benson

April 10, 1924 - August 31, 2015