Shinn, Benoni 1919-2009

SHINN, IVEY, LAPSEY

Posted By: Ernie Braida (email)
Date: 1/10/2010 at 15:19:15

Benoni Shinn, 89, of Knoxville passed away Thursday, January 29, 2009 at his home surrounded by his family, friends and beloved dog, Caesar.

Benoni “Ben” was born June 7, 1919 the son of Noel Dunbar Shinn and Callie (Ivey) Shinn. Ben grew up in Knoxville with his sister, Bonnie Jo Loynachan and his brothers, Joe Shinn and Noel “Junior” Shinn. Ben later met the love of his life in Albia, Iowa.

On February 13, 1940 Ben married Edith Lapsey. Ben and Edith had three sons, Benoni Everette, Roger Earl and Michael John.

In 1939 Ben started Ben Shinn Trucking. He started the company with one Ford dump truck. His sons joined him in the trucking business, which is still in operation today. Ben continued the trucking business until his retirement with the exception of his service in World War II. Ben proudly served his country in the U.S. Army while stationed in Italy.

Later in life, Ben opened Benoni’s Steakhouse in Pleasantville, Iowa. The steakhouse provided Ben with many hours of entertainment and an opportunity to make new friends.

Ben enjoyed numerous activities including boating, fast cars, motorcycles, going to the races, playing cards and tending to his horses. In addition to his horses, Ben enjoyed his dogs during his life. Ben continued to train his dog even as his health declined. Ben also took great pleasure in flying planes. Shortly before his death, Ben received an honorary pilot’s license, fulfilling a lifelong dream.

Ben was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Edith; his sister, Bonnie; his brother, Joe and his step-grandson, Jim Nichols.

Ben will be missed by his sons and their wives: Ben and Linda Shinn, Roger and Kathy Shinn and Mike and Linda Shinn all of Knoxville; his grandchildren and their spouses: Terees and Kenny Jenkins, Tom and Holly Shinn, Michael Shinn, Callie and Aaron Anderson, Angie and Bob Dingeman, Amy Shinn and Mike Nichols; 10 great-grandchildren; brother, Noel “Junior” Shinn and wife Betty of Knoxville; special friend and caregiver, Barb Watson and many other relatives and friends.

Burial: Graceland Cemetery, Knoxville, IA

Bertrand Funeral Homes Jan. 2009