Rushford, MN - Alma A. Benson, 87, died December 29, 2019, at Gundersen Health Systems in LaCrosse, WI. Alma was born to Clarence and Marie (Nelson) Hallum on July 15, 1932. She was raised in the Whalan area, attended Diamond Creek Country School and graduated from Peterson High School in 1951.
On March 15, 1952, Alma was united in marriage with Arlyn Benson at Whalan Lutheran Church. The couple farmed 6 years before moving to Peterson, then moved to Rushford in 1960. Alma was a member of Grace Lutheran Church in Peterson. She was employed at Rush Products for 35 years, and enjoyed bowling with her co-workers. She also enjoyed retiree breakfasts, visiting with friends, church dinners. Alma was very appreciative of friends and family who provided rides to appointments and pleasure rides. Alma will be remembered as a great cook and homemaker and for her beautiful smile.
She is survived by 3 children: Greg Benson of Rushford, Pamela (William) Franzen of Chanhassen, MN, and Debbie (Dan) Kronebusch of Altura, MN; 5 grandchildren: Meghan (Matt) Miller, Zachary (Annalisa) Franzen, Maren Franzen, Tim (Krizzia Icaonapo) Kronebusch, Justin (Elizabeth Green) Kronebusch; 2 great-grandchildren: Thad Miller, and Madeline Grace Franzen; sister, Alice Lee; brother, Milton (Kathy) Hallum; sisters-in-law, Ione Hallum and Nancy Benson, of Rushford, and many nieces and nephews.
Alma was preceded in death by her husband Arlyn; infant son, Brian Todd Benson; sister, Cora Mattson; brothers, Ray, Teman, Edwin, and John Hallum; brothers-in-law, Llewellyn Benson, Lyle Lee, and Orville Mattson; sisters-in law Geneva Hallum and Beverly Hallum; nephew, Steven Lee; and niece, Elaine Mattson.
There will be a memorial service at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 18, 2020, at Grace Lutheran Church in Peterson, MN, with a visitation from 11:30 to 1:00 p.m. at the church. Burial will be in the West Grace Lutheran Cemetery.