Jerry Benson

JERRY BENSON was born on February 21, 1948 in Ely. He graduated from William Kelley High School in Silver Bay, Minnesota in 1966. He attended Bemidji State University in Bemidji, Minnesota and graduated Summa Cum Laude in 1970 with a Bachelor of Science degree in History and Social Studies. He was active in various activities and societies throughout his college years. Jerry began his career as a Social Studies teacher in Magnolia, Minnesota where he taught from 1970 - 1981. From 1981 -2017, he taught in Luverne, Minnesota. In addition to his high school teaching position, he was also an Adjunct Professor of Geography and Psychology at Minnesota West Community and Technical College, Worthington, Minnesota from 1986 to 2002. During his teaching career, he continued his own education through South Dakota State University in Brookings, South Dakota. He received his Master’s Degree in Geography and Cartography in 2008 while being involved in the Geography Club and as an Alliance Consultant. In 2012, he received his Post Doctorate Degree in Geography as well as being on the SAGE Steering Committee and being involved with the Lewis & Clark Bi-Centennial. Jerry officially retired on May 31, 2017.

Jerry had a passion for reading and collected over 6,000 books. His large book collection was his pride and joy. He was the longest serving local teacher and taught social studies for 47 years. Jerry received the American History Teacher of the Year Award in 2009, sponsored by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History, which recognizes outstanding teachers across the nation and emphasizes the importance of American history. Also during his career, he received both national and international teaching awards from the Council for Geographic Education. Jerry was the Head Speech and Debate Coach for 45 years and will be remembered by his students as a great teacher, coach and mentor. He encouraged his students to strive to be the best in everything they do.

Jerry is survived by his mother, Evelyn Benson of Ely; siblings, Phillip (Ruby) Benson of Andover, Minnesota and Sandra (David) Severson of Westminster, Colorado; nieces, Nanette (Tim) Yurecko and Courtney (Ben) Provido; and nephews, Phillip Benson, Jr. and Brandon Severson. He was preceded in death by his father, Stanley Benson.

The family would like to thank the “Angels of Good Samaritan Society – Mary Jane Brown Home of Luverne” and staff for the dedication and loving care they provided to Jerry during his challenging journey. We would like to thank Dr. Judy Chesley for her compassion and understanding; his friend, Oncologist, and confidant Dr. Michael Keppen. We would also like to thank his 3 Amigos: Jim Sanden, Larry Nelson, and Keith Erickson for the numerous times they were called to “duty” to help and comfort Jerry during his journey. Jerry loved his students and hoped he could make an impact on their future.

Memorials are preferred to Good Samaritan Society – Mary Jane Brown Home of Luverne.