Elder "Red" W. Benker

Elder †œRed†� W. Benker 85, transitioned on April 28, 2011 surrounded by the love of his family and friends. He was born January 2, 1926 in New Salem, North Dakota. He was the second born of four children of William and Alma Benker. He was a brother and a friend to all people he met, and knew no strangers. He served as a U.S. Marine in World War II. Elder enjoyed family and church activities, golfing, gardening and spent much time in the mountains fishing, enjoying wild life and many hikes. He will be greatly missed by many. His wife of 61 years, Marian transitioned before him in 2009. He is survived by his daughter Joanne and husband Ron of Northglenn, CO and his son William and his wife Gail of Thornton, CO; five Grandchildren, Sean (Erica), Chris (Stacy), Karie (Jon), Chris and Sean (Aiko). Ten Great-Grandchildren. Sister†™s Adena and Arlene of Minnesota and Will of Grand Junction, CO. Services will be held Wednesday, May 4, 2011-11:00am at Aspen Memorial Chapel, 1350 Simms Street, Lakewood, CO. Committal Service at Fort Logan National Cemetery at 1:00pm with the United States Marines and All Veteran†™s Honor Guard. In lieu of flowers donations may be sent to the Alzheimer†™s Association. Birth: Jan 2, 1926, New Salem, North Dakota Death: Apr 28, 2011, Thornton, Colorado