John Joseph Benski, 79, of Great Falls passed peacefully in his sleep on September 27, 2024. No formal services are planned, and cremation has been entrusted to Croxford and Sons. Friends are invited to join the family on Saturday, October 5th at 3:30 pm at the Heidelberg Bar in Great Falls.
John was born on October 26, 1944, in Butte, MT to Joseph Frank and Rose Favero Benski. John had two younger siblings, James and Joseph Benski. John joined the United States Navy in 1962 as an armory foreman, station in locations Hawaii and Vietnam. He was awarded a Good Conduct medal and a Vietnam service medal and was released from active duty in 1966. Upon his return to Butte, John married Edmondine (Eddy) Leishman and moved to Washington where daughter Michelle was born. The family then moved to Colorado where Eddy gave birth to twins Joseph and James. The family returned to Montana settling in Great Falls, where John worked as a mechanic and vehicle service technician, then with Howard’s Pizza. After many years of marriage, John and Eddy divorced. John then met Patricia Aristonic who remained his friend until his passing. John was an avid NASCAR fan, collected Kevin Harvick memorabilia, and was able to attend a race at the Atlanta Speedway. He also enjoyed football and the Green Bay Packers, and spending time with friends at the Heidelberg Bar.
John is survived by his brother, Joseph (Karen) Benski, daughter Michelle (Roger) Wilson, son Joseph (Leah) Benski, son James (Stacie) Benski, and grandson Hunter (Mandy) Wilson, granddaughter Harlie Wilson (Travis Richards), niece Amber (Scott) Stearns and nephew Christopher (Rachelle) Benski. He was preceded in death by his father Joseph, mother Rose, and brother James. The family wishes to thank Dr. Karl Guter, Nancy Rowell, the doctors and nursing staff with the Great Falls Clinic, Benefis Healthcare, Copper Ridge in Butte, the VA in Great Falls and Fort Harrison, Park Place and Peace Hospice for providing care and comfort to John.
Author: Staff
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