Cleo Adele Carpenter

Cleo A. Carpenter (Benit) was born in Baudette, Minnesota on April 27, 1930.

She was the oldest of 4 children. Cleo claimed her many years of work began at age 5 when her chores started on the family farm.

She was married to James E. Carpenter for 66 years. Together they raised 4 children of their own, along with several foster children. They spent most of their years in Illinois. They retired to Minnesota first, and then again to Arizona to be closer to Grandchildren.

Cleo was very active member in the United Methodist Churches, as well as many social groups. She enjoyed baking and cooking, puzzles and games. Cleo maintained a positive attitude despite many health issues, and was a shining star to all who met her.

She is preceded in death by her husband Jim, and brother Rudy in 2021; her sister Bonnie Aichele in 2014; and son Dana in 1973. She is survived by daughters, Debra Carpenter and Diane Gioia (Carpenter); son David Carpenter; and Brother Doug Benit, as well as 8 grandchildren and many great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

A visitation for Cleo will be held Friday, July 29, 2022 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Valley of the Sun Mortuary & Cemetery, 10940 East Chandler Heights Rd, Chandler, AZ 85248. Following the visitation will be a graveside service from 12:30 PM to 1:00 PM at National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 23029 N. Cave Creek Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85024, where she will be laid to rest with her husband.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.valleyofthesunfuneralhome.com for the Carpenter family.