Obituaries

Richard (Rick) Charles Benson

Photo of Richard (Rick) Charles Benson
Richard (Rick) Charles Benson, 72, died May 14, 2019 at Circle of Life Hospice in Bentonville. He was born to Charles R. and Gladys Benson on January 5, 1947 in Grinnell, Iowa. He was raised and educated in Grinnell until he entered the US Marine Corps in 1966. He served four years active duty in the Marines including nearly three consecutive years throughout Southeast Asia attaining the rank of Sergeant. Upon release from active duty, he attended Simpson College in Indianola, Iowa and graduated in 1973. The following day, he began a 32 year state police career as a Special Agent with the Iowa Division of Narcotic and Drug Enforcement and Division of Criminal Investigation obtaining the rank of Special Agent in Charge. His service included several years of undercover narcotics and major crime investigations for the State of Iowa. He enlisted again in the US Naval Reserve in 1977 as a Seaman and retired from the Armed Forces in 1993 as a Lieutenant. In 2005, he and his wife retired to Bella Vista, Arkansas after living in Cedar Rapids, Iowa for 28 years. Rick was an active member of Bella Vista Lutheran Church. He was a member of the Iowa Policeman's Association, the Navel Officers Association, the American Legion and served in the Honor Guard. He loved his Lord, his country, living and golfing in Bella Vista, cruising the Caribbean and spending time with family. Rick enjoyed life. He considered himself very fortunate to have Pam as his life's partner. He was extremely proud of his children and loved spending time with his grandchildren. Rick is survived by his wife and best friend of 49 years, Pam. They were blessed to have two children, Nathan and Jill. Nathan and daughter, Alayna Benson reside in Burleson, Texas. Jill, Brian, Avery and Cole Eastman live in Midlothian, Texas. Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, May 20th at Bella Vista Lutheran Church, 1990 Forest Hills Blvd, Bella Vista, Arkansas. Arrangements are by Bella Vista Funeral Home & Crematory. Online condolences may be made at www.funeralmation.com.

Published May 16, 2019

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