Charles Edward Benson

BENSON, RAMSEY, BINGMAN, WHEELDON

Posted By: Ida Morse (email)
Date: 1/14/2006 at 19:38:36

Earlham Library Obituaries October 1961
Earlham, Iowa

CHARLES E. BENSON

Charles Edward Benson was born March 22, 1880 in Dallas County, Iowa, near Earlham. He was a son of Jasper and Miraha Bingman Benson, who farmed north of Earlham.

Charles was united in marriage to Ruth Ramsey December 11, 1901. They farmed near Earlham for a short time before moving to North Dakota where they lived fourteen years. They then moved back to Minnesota and lived there 17 years. Returning to Iowa, they made their home in the Earlham area where he lived the rest of his life. Their home was blessed by one daughter Neva Wheeldon of Earlham, and one son William N. of Stuart.

Charles, as he was known by his many friends, was actively engaged in farming all his life. He liked his work, toiled diligently and never complained.

He always liked to work and visit with his neighbors. He always liked good livestock and always had good ones around him. He had a great love for horses and fine ones he always had. It was said many times that Charlie Benson had one of the best, if not the best, teams in the county.

At the early age of 17 he became an active member of the Hickory Grove United Brethren Church, where his loyalty and faith remained thereafter. Through many months of lingering illness, his faith in God remained strong and ever steadfast.

He leaves to mourn his passing his loving wife, Ruth, two children, Neva Wheeldon of Earlham and William N. Benson of Stuart, six grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and a host of other relaives and friends.

He departed this life on earth October 5, 1961, at the age of 81 years, 6 months and 13 days.

The funeral service was held in the Earlham Friends Church on Saturday, October 7, with the pastor, L. Willard Reynolds, in charge, assisted by Rev. Stephen Cree, pastor of the local Methodist church. Organ music was provided by Helen Ludwick. Singers were Alma Mapes and Gertrude Conrad, accompanied by Norma Conrad. Burial was in the Earlham Cemetery.