Stephen K. Benson

Stephen (Steve) K. Benson, Encinitas, CA passed away unexpectedly in a car accident on Monday, December 8, 2014 in Dickinson, ND. He is survived by his son, Kyle Benson of Anchorage, AK; his parents, Ken and Nancy Benson of Maricopa, AZ; sisters: Jill Balcombe (Mike) of Spanaway, WA, and Wendy Benson of Encinitas, CA; brother, Mike (Sue) of West Point, NY. He is also survived by his nephews and nieces: Sam, Sarah, Abby, Rachel and Luke Benson; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends. Steve was born November 5, 1969 in Everett, Washington. He attended Meadowdale High School and spent much of his youth wrestling all the way through high school. After turning down a scholarship at VMI (Virginia Military Institute), he followed his heart and joined the Marine Corps. He worked as an aviation technician serving in Desert Storm. Steve was, in large part, defined by a service-oriented approach to life. In addition to his time serving his country, he served through tirelessly helping others from projects to relocations, and in his workplace he exemplified a work ethic of loyal and committed service. After his time in the military, he earned his Class C (Commercial) Drivers License. He had more than two million miles driving across all parts of the United States without a single accident before the Lord called him home. Steve loved living in North County of San Diego where he found friends and dogs that matched his huge heart - he loved the coast and the wonderful weather. He will be remembered for his quick wit, his competitive and fun nature playing games and cards with his family and friends. Steve was a brave and loving man, a great friend, an attentive brother, a loyal son who never missed any of his father's surgeries and a loving father who thought his son was the best part of him. He leaves a huge hole in our hearts. Services for Steve will be held in Washingtonville, NY at 3 p.m. on December 12th at Grace Community Church. In lieu of flowers, please direct all gifts in memory of Stephen Benson to the Wounded Warrior Project by visiting www.support.woundedwarriorproject.org or by calling Wounded Warrior Project at 855.GIVE.WWP. Arrangements under the care of the David T. Ferguson FH 20 North St. Washingtonville, NY 10992. For further info or to leave a message of condolences for Stephen's family please visit our website at www.davidtfergusonfh.com.