Joan Elizabeth (Ullan) Benson, 91, passed away peacefully at home in Houston, Minn., with her family, after a brief battle with cancer. Joan was born June 17, 1933, along with her twin sister June to Norman and Beatrice (Bakken) Ullan.
She grew up on the ridge above Looney Valley. She attended Houston High School. Joan attended beauty school in Minneapolis then later returned to Houston. On June 19, 1954, she married Virgil Benson.
A lifelong Houston native, Joan was well-loved in her small town. She owned her own beauty shop at her home for years and was involved in the American Legion Auxiliary, and was a member of Cross of Christ Church. She loved entertaining friends and family with her cooking. During her life she loved to crochet, quilt, and travel to many places with family and friends. She enjoyed the boat house, bowling, playing cards and Cribbage with family and friends and watching her children and grandchildren play sports and all the local sporting events. She also enjoyed watching professional sports, especially the Twins, Vikings and Packers.
She is survived by her son Perry (Lori) Benson and her daughter Kelly Porter, both from Houston; grandchildren- Brett (Heather) Benson, Tanner (Megan) Benson, Audra Benson, Casey Porter and Conner Porter; great-grandchildren Braxten, Lennox, Monroe, Ryker, Jude and Luka. Her greatest love was her family.
Joan was predeceased by her husband Virgil and her parents Norman and Beatrice (Bakken) Ullan and twin sister June Vix, brothers-in-law Laurel Benson and Wayne Benson, Alan Buckel and sister-in-law Marie Benson.
There will be a memorial service on Saturday, January 11, at 11 a.m. at the Cross of Christ Lutheran Church in Houston, Minn. Visitation will begin prior to the service, starting at 9:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please make memorials to Cross of Christ Lutheran Church in Houston.
Hoff Funeral Home – Houston is assisting the family with arrangements.
Bonnie Rank says
Joanne was an institution in Houston, she served the community. I remember the original shop well as a child.
I worked at Joanne’s for six years, watching Perry grow up and Kelly as a newborn. She will be missed.
I’m sorry I will not be able to attend the service.
Sharon Benson Goede says
I was saddened to hear/read of Joan’s passing…but know that she is at peace now. She took care of my hair for many many years…I am sure that you have many many memories (good funny and bad) You will be together and then you will all start with Remember When…and laugh and cry over all the memories
I am sorry that I won’t be able to be there for the funeral and time to give you hugs but know that I am thinking of you all.
Sharon (Benson) Goede says
Thoughts and Prayers are with you and the family…
Sharon (Benson) Goede says
Perry and Kelly and family You have my deepest sympathy I know that you have many many memories that you will carry with you and pass down to others too…..