John Lars Benson

John Lars Benson, age 78, of Eben Junction, died at his home following a lengthy illness on Thursday evening, October 9, 2025. John was born on June 20, 1947 in Narpes, Finland. He came to the U.S. as a young child and was adopted by his parents, Gunnar and Linnea (Mickelson) Benson. John grew up on the family farm in Eben and graduated from Eben High School. He entered into the U.S. Navy on July 22, 1966 and served as an engine mechanic on the USS Sagacity. John was honorably discharged on April 6, 1970 and earned the National Defense Medal. He got married and had three daughters. John was a farmer, carpenter (he built his own home), diesel mechanic, and he could do and fix just about anything and everything. John married Sadie (Holm) Kittell in 1986 and she preceded him in death on August 30, 2025. John enjoyed tinkering in his basement, wood carving, and working on cars.

John is survived by his three daughters - Angela Hope Burgess, Delores Benson, and Linnea (Johnny) Horne all of the Carolinas; stepchildren - Bob Kurian of Eben Junction, Vera (Shawn) Beauchamp of Gwinn, Tom Kittell of Gwinn, and Michael (Mandey Sauer) Kittell of Eben Junction; grandchildren – Heather, Adam, Alex, and Jacob; many step grandchildren and great-grandchildren; brother – Leif and Janet Benson. He was preceded in death by his parents Gunnar and Linnea Benson, wife Sadie, and brother Lars.

Military honors will be rendered by the Alger County Veterans Honor Guard at the Maple Grove Cemetery in Munising on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at 2:00 p.m.