Lois Marie Benson age 89 of Hoquiam, Washington, formerly of Havre and Big Sandy, Montana, passed away on June 28, 2020. Lois, the oldest of 5 children was born on June 13, 1931 in Laramie, Wyoming to John Wesley (June) Leazenby and Margaret Sarah (Prue) Leazenby. Lois, who was known as Peggy to friends and family while growing up, attended school in Laramie, Wyoming.

In 1951 while working at the Virginian Café in Medicine Bow, Wyoming Mom met and married Bob Benson. In 1952 a daughter, Diane Marie was born. 2 years later Diane’s world changed forever when younger brother Gary Ray joined the family. The Benson’s traveled the west and finally settled in Havre, Montana in 1958 where the stayed until 1972. While in Havre Lois worked at Sears, Montgomery Wards and at the Hospital. In 1972 the Bensons moved to Big Sandy where they continued to make many lifelong friends. In 2009 they relocated to Hoquiam, Washington.

Lois was preceded in death by her husband Bob, her parents, and 3 brothers.

Surviving relatives include daughter Diane Gibby (Mike) of Hoquiam, WA., son Gary Benson (Bonnie) of Helena, MT., brother John Leazenby (Sally) of Missouri, sister-in-law Marilyn Leazenby of Ft. Benton, seven grandchildren, one special granddaughter, numerous great grandchildren and favorite nieces and nephews.

Burial took place on July 9th at the Harlem cemetery. Due to Covid concerns a private memorial is hoped for later.

Mom will be remembered for always being there when you needed her and for her raisin cookies that tasted like a Folgers coffee can.

As a personal memorial Mom would say have coffee with a Senior Citizen of your choice