Obituary of Keith Benson

Keith W. Benson "Benny" Age 60, of Morris, IL, passed away peacefully at home, Saturday, March 5, 2011, after a courageous battle against cancer. He was born in Morris April 7, 1950 to the late Delores Mae (Cain) and Earl Kenneth Benson and was a lifelong Morris resident. He was a graduate of Morris Community High School and attended the Pharmacy Technician School in Riverside, CA, as well as Kansas State University. Upon returning to his hometown, Benny began his career as a barber. For the past 30 years he owned and operated his own hair salon, Only By Shears. On July 7, 1987 Benny was united as best friend and in marriage to Lynn E. (Meskill) on the beach in Jamaica. In addition to being a wonderful husband, he was a loving and devoted father of Brianna Lynn and Alexa Jo Benson. Also survived by two brothers, Earl Jr. "Butch" and James (Lisa) Benson; one sister, Doreen (William "Woody") Thorson. Several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, friends and his canine companion Oliver also survive. He was preceded in death by his parents. Keith truly enjoyed the outdoors. He loved golfing, softball, fishing, and hunting. Benny excelled at every sport, including bowling, in which he recorded several 300 games. Together, he and Lynn also enjoyed scuba diving, water skiing, and snow skiing. Keith was always a successful businessman; he was co-owner of Stooges Bar and Grill from 1986-1994, owner/operator of Morris Limousine Service, and owner of Only By Shears since 1980. Visitation will be held Tuesday, March 8, 2011 from 2-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Funeral services for Keith "Benny" Benson will be held Wednesday, March 9, 2011, 10:30 am at the funeral home. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his name to his daughter's education fund would be appreciated. FRED C. DAMES FUNERAL HOME 1201 W. Rt. 6 at Deerpath Dr., Morris For information (815) 942-5040