BENSON, Harvey

January 19, 1938 — September 19, 2024

Harvey Oliver Benson passed away suddenly, at home, on September 19, 2024, into the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, whom he loved and served.

Harvey will be deeply missed by his wife of almost 64 years, Edith; his daughter Carol Patton (Andre) and son Paul (Verena); seven grandchildren:  Andre (Christina), Bryan (Brianne), Conor (Carlee), Julie Ann (Nic), Daniel (Janine), Simon (Chantelle), and Sol (Quinn); also, nine great-grandchildren:  Sienna, Adrielle, Hailey, Emery, Olivia, & Violet Patton and Audrey, Nell, & baby Ezra Benson. He is also survived by his two brothers: Lorne Benson (Eleanor) and Wally Benson; his brother-in-law Ken Gaetz; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Harvey was predeceased by his parents Ben & Alice (née Erickson); his brother Wayne; Edith’s parents Jonas & Gerda Salmonson; and his siblings-in-law, Alrik (& Myrtle), Joel, Sarah Gaetz, Anna (& Earle Wilkinson), and Viola (& Dave Wilson).

Harvey was born in Winnipeg, MB on January 19, 1938, and spent his younger years in the family home of Lac du Bonnet, MB. However, when he was nine years old, his dad packed up the family and moved back home to Sweden for one year, giving time with a large extended family there.  Harvey loved his Swedish roots: the language, pickled herring, lutfisk, and all things Swedish!

After high school, he left home and moved to Winnipeg and learned the electrical trade, which began a lifelong career in construction, building, and development.  In 1960, he married his Swedish-sweetheart Edith.  They had two children, Carol and Paul.  The family worshipped at Calvary Temple, where Harvey was heavily involved and volunteered wherever he could.  Harvey was also very active and loved the outdoors: hiking, camping, fishing, golfing, biking and skiing.  It was on a family ski trip in 1977 that he and Edith decided to move the family and his electrical business to Kelowna, BC.

Evangel Church became a big part of their family life and is where he, again, volunteered in many areas.  He loved deeply and was a people person.  He cherished his family, loved his many friends, and was always looking for ways to help someone in need.  He enjoyed visiting over a hot cup of coffee — and could not turn down the chance of playing Canasta or a good game of Rook!  He was a man of integrity: loyal, generous, honest, and with a strong faith & deep love for God.

Retirement allowed more time for travel, including Europe and many winters in the sun of Arizona.

We are saddened by the loss of our wonderful husband, dad, and ‘papa’ — but we take comfort knowing he is with Jesus.

We want to sincerely thank the lovely and supportive staff and new friends of Missionwood Retirement Resort for their many kindnesses to make Harvey’s final time so pleasant.  Also, our appreciation for the kind services of Springfield Funeral Home.

A Funeral Service will be held on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2024, at 2:00 PM (PDT), at Evangel Church: 3261 Gordon Drive, Kelowna, BC.  A reception will follow. If you are unable to attend in person, please join the family online by Livestream at the time of the service (see below), a recording will be made available to view shortly thereafter.

LIVESTREAM: Click Here to View Livestream