She graduated from South High School in Omaha, NE at the age of 16. Married Robert E Benge (Bunk) on December 12, 1947, in Maryville, MO. The family settled in AZ in 1959. She was a homemaker for several years. She re-entered the workforce when her youngest child was 10 years old. She retired from U-Haul in 1994.
She enjoyed reading, video poker, crocheting, embroidery, and sewing. She loved making clothing for her family. She spent time with Bunk at CB radio events. They would also travel out of town to family gatherings. In 1990 after Bunk's death, her daughter Kathy moved in with her so she could co-parent raising her three sons. They would often travel to the casinos in Laughlin. She was very active in the lives of her children, and grandchildren. She travelled to Germany to care for two of her grandchildren while her son (Robert) and his wife (Jullie) were on temporary duty in the military.
She was a member of North Phoenix Baptist Church and the Maricopa Chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution.
She leaves 4 children, Ellen L (Timothy) Poole, Robert E (Jullie) Benge Jr, Frank B (Cynthia) Benge, Kathy A (Richard) Look, 10 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband Bunk , her sister Beverly Longton, and 2 great grandchildren.
A visitation will be held at 5PM on September 11. 2024 at Chapel of the Chimes Mortuary 7924 N. 59th Ave, Glendale, AZ. A funeral service with be held at 11AM on September 12, 2024 at Chapel of the Chimes Mortuary with a graveside service to follow at National Cemetery of Arizona 23029 Cave Creek Rd Phoenix, AZ
