BENSON, Duane David

Today's News-Herald, Lake Havasu City, AZ - Published on December 29, 2015 - Duane David Benson, 82, passed away peacefully on Dec. 24, 2015 with his family by his side in Lake Havasu City after a hard fought battle with cancer. Born Oct. 5, 1933, Duane grew up in Butte, Mont., the oldest of his four siblings. He was drafted into the Army during the Korean War. While en route to the conflict by troop ship the Armistice was enacted and he was rerouted to Germany for the remainder of his enlistment. Upon his returning to Butte, Duane married his best friend and soul mate, Josephine Sodja. At an early age, he found his place in the road construction trade. He was involved in the building and paving of many of the roads and highways throughout Montana working for various contractors. Preceding him in death were his mother, Sophie; father, Art; sister, Nancy; sister-in-law, Jo-Anne Benson; nephew, Brad Benson and brother-in-law, Joe Guay. In addition to his wife Jo, he leaves behind his son, Tom; daughter, Linda; four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Cremation will occur in Lake Havasu City. A future date for family graveside services in Butte, Mont. will be determined. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent to Lakeview Community Church. It’s O.K. Dad…time to “Take your marbles and go home.” Services were placed in the care of Lietz-Fraze Funeral Home and Crematory. Thoughts and condolences may be sent to the family at www.lietz- frazefuneralhome.com.