Obituary of Milton Benson

Milton Dean Benson August 2, 1937—March 11, 2012 Milton Benson went to rest in heaven on March 11, 2012. He lost his battle with cancer after a four 4 month illness. Born on August 3, 1937 in Monroe, Michigan Milt was the son of Roy and Josephine (Navarre) Benson. Milton was married to Joyce McAnally in Angola, Indiana in 1957. His beloved Joyce lost her own battle with cancer in 1994. Milton worked for 37 years as a Manager for Allen Chevrolet before retiring in 1999. Milton served his community for 37 years as a volunteer firefighter for Frenchtown Fire Department. Milton loved the camaraderie of the fire department and his fellow firefighters. Milton loved to fish and he liked to watch the Red Wings, as well as spending time with his family and all his grandchildren. Milton continued his journey in life for the last 17 years with his best friend and love Sue McLaughlin. He is survived by Sue and his children: Brian J. Benson, Steven M. Benson, Laurie (Brian) Sharp, and Cathy (Jeff) Sharpe. Stepchildren: Mike (Tammy) Oley, Tom (Leslie) Oley, Kim (Rob) Swihart, John (Carla) McLaughlin. His grandchildren: Alisha, Jacob, Joshua, Catelyn, Kyliegh, Thomas, Michael, Noah, Shaylyn, Jeff, Ezra, Levi, Lydia, Owen, Emily and a great granddaughter Hailey. He was proceeded in death by his wife Joyce and his parents. Friends may gather from 1:00pm until 8:00pm Tuesday, March 13, 2012 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734)384-5185. A Celebration of His Life will take place at 11:00am, Wednesday, March 14, 2012 also at Merkle's. The Reverend Roy Southerland, Pastor of Monroe Missionary Baptist Church will officiate. Procession will follow to Roselawn Memorial Park in LaSalle for burial. In lieu of flowers memorial donations for those who desire are suggested to Mercy Memorial Hospice. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or make a donation by visiting www.merklefs.com and then selecting the Online Tributes page.