Patricia K. "Pat" Benson

Patricia K. "Pat" Benson, age 71 of Hastings, died peacefully at home on Friday evening, December 27, 2019. Patricia Kay, the daughter of Clarence and Esther (Henderson) Anderson, was born on May 26, 1948, in St. James, Minnesota. Following her graduation from St. James High School with the class of 1966, Pat continued her education at Commercial School in Mankato. She then worked as a legal secretary for the Dean of Medicine at the University of Minnesota and on May 23, 1970, was united in marriage to Keith Benson in St. James. They moved to Minot, North Dakota while Keith was in the service, and eventually returned home to start a family. Pat worked as a PSA at North Side Elementary in St. James, and later retired from Kennedy Elementary in Hastings. She enjoyed camping and traveling with her family, working in her yard, spending time with her family and friends, and walking. Pat and Keith also enjoyed wintering in Florida as well. Pat is survived by her loving husband, Keith; children, Kyle (Cindy) Benson and Gina (Trevor) Spoo; grandchildren, Cole and McKenna Benson, and Karsen, Brennen, Hugo, and Grady Spoo; brother, Dale (Debbie) Anderson; and by many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Memorial services will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, January 2, 2020, at Our Saviour's Ev. Lutheran Church in Hastings, with Reverend Lloyd Menke officiating. Private family interment will be held at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis. Family and friends are cordially invited to a visitation from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., and to a light reception immediately following the service, all at the church on Thursday. Arrangements are being completed by Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings.