James "Jim" Benson

James “Jim” Benson, age 91, passed away on January 31, 2024, in Florence, AZ. Jim was born on October 25, 1932, in Soldiers Grove, WI to Earl and Christina Benson, the youngest of five boys. He was the beloved husband of Phyllis (Everson).

Jim graduated from Soldiers Grove High School where he discovered a love of sports and excelled as an athlete. At a young age, he enlisted in the Marine Corp and became a Korean War Combat Veteran. Jim was an extremely proud marine who served with distinction. Upon his safe return, Jim and Phyllis ran Benson’s grocery store in Soldiers Grove while he finished his degree in education from the University of Wisconsin La Crosse in 1964. He taught and coached at various high schools while working on his master’s degree in counseling from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh in 1976. Later, he worked for the Department of Defense coordinating their military testing.

After retiring, he enjoyed his time in Arizona golfing, hiking, and playing cards. Jim cherished his time spent with friends and family. Jim was a long-time member of the Soldiers Grove American Legion.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Phyllis and his special pet, Mitzi. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Charlotte Sherry and Lola (Ron) Olson; brother-in-law, Dan (Ann) Everson; special nieces and nephews; and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers: Gordan, Robert “Bob”, William “Billy” and Dickie; and brothers-in-law, Philip Sherry and Gary Everson.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Soldiers Grove or a charity of your choice in Jim’s memory.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Soldiers Grove. Pastor Carrie Anderson will officiate. A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Jim will be laid to rest at the Forest Hill Cemetery with full military honors.

Vosseteig-Larson Funeral Home & Crematory in Viroqua is serving Jim's family.

123 W. Decker Street

Viroqua, WI 54665

(608) 637-2100