Brian Walker Benson

Brian John Walker Benson Born January 27, 1948 at Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, the son of the late Earl Eugene (Mike) Benson, and Mary Margaret Walker McCarthy. Passed away July 21, 2017, age 69. Attended Barbour Hall Junior Military Academy Kalamazoo, MI.graduating Eighth Grade Spring 1963. Grosse Ile High School, graduating Spring 1967. He attended Montcalm CC. Brian also earned a number of technical degrees during his working years for his father, the owner of Michigan Nickel Co. After playing varsity football for Grosse Ile all four years, Brian played semi-pro football for the Woodhaven/Flatrock Warriors in the mid-70s. He played center and defensive tackle. The team wore the old jerseys of the Detroit Lions. Brian worked 40 years for Michigan Nickel Co. in Wyandotte until he retired in 2004. After retirement, he worked as dogcatcher for the Southgate/Wyandotte Animal Control until illness caused him to leave. Brian always had a twinkle in his eye, and a marvelous uplifting spirit. Anyone who knew him enjoyed being around him. He loved his family more than anything. He and former wife Mary Jo Springer, have remained friends all through the years. Brian's greatest passion was being a loving and devoted father to Brian Jr, Jason, Emily and Vanessa. A passionate endeavor was his dedicated membership in Reenactment in the Civil War. He devoted many, many years to 12th South Carolina Reenactment; 4th Michigan Reenactment; and, 5th Rangers Reenactment. His other pursuits, dog lover extraordinaire, and reading educational books on American history. He is preceded in death by his parents, and a brother, Michael Sheridan Benson, and beloved granddaughter Josephine 'Rosie' Benson. Surviving to cherish his memory are his children, Brian Jr., Jason (Jessica), Emily, and Vanessa (Jaime) Madrigal. Three grandchildren, Jamie and June Benson, and Jaime Madrigal. Sister, Karen Dean Benson (Charlie) and family, Stephen, Kevin, David, Noel and Brian Dean and daughter Mary Margaret Dean Ellis. Brother, Patrick Burke Benson (Judy) and family Michael Benson, Deborah Benson, Jenifer Zaenglein, and Rebecca Benson/Jensen. We can't forget Brian's precious dachshund, Mee-a.