James Edward Benson- age 86 of Lake passed away on Sunday, May 29, 2016, at Mid-Michigan Medical Center in Midland. James was born on July 16, 1929 to parents Bert and Myrtle Jane (Timmons) Benson, in Greenacres City, Florida. After High School James proudly served our country with the United States Navy from 1948 until 1952, serving as a control tower operator stationed at U. S. Naval Air Station, Whidbey Island, WA. He was married to Geraldine Allison Hanson on April 19, 1952 in Fremont, IN. and together they raised five children. Jim served as a volunteer fireman in Hollister , FL, coached little league, he loved doing carpentry with his brother, was a self-taught mechanic, loved vacationing with his family, travelling, and passed on his knowledge about life to his family. Jim worked for and retired from IBM. He leaves to cherish many wonderful memories, his wife of 64 years, Geraldine , a daughter Jylle Benson- Gauss and husband Robert of Hector, NY, sons; James T. Benson and wife Kathy of Vassar, Barry Benson of Chicago, Brian Benson of Saginaw, four grandchildren; Jennifer, Seren, Chris, Matthew, one great-grandson Jamie, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his son Timothy Benson in 1992, and siblings Nila Ellison of Flint, Glenn Benson of FL, and Clarence Benson of OR. A memorial service and celebration of Jim's life is planned for Monday, June 6th, 2016, at the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Reed City, at 11 AM. Friends and family will gather from 10AM until the time of the service. Pastor Dawn Poole will officiate. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Campbell-Stocking Funeral Home. Please consider Memorial donations to the Reed City Food Pantry, % St. Paul Lutheran Church. Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.CampbellStocking.com.