Michael R. Benson, 56 of Markle, and longtime paramedic for Wells County E.M.S., passed away on Saturday evening, August 24, 2024, at his residence, surrounded by his family.
Michael was born on May 6, 1968, in Bluffton to Buddy R. & Carol A. (Wingert) Benson. A 1986 graduate of Huntington North High School, he earned a degree as an electrical technician from ITT in Fort Wayne. He worked at Hill’s Meat Market, Crossroads Pantry and the Wells Community Hospital. Mike devoted his life working as Advanced Paramedic for Wells County E.M.S. for 33 years and worked as a supervisor, CPR instructor, and first aid instructor for many years. Michael also served on the Markle Volunteer Fire & E.M.S. and worked at the Markle Police Department, Ossian Police Department and Wells County Sherriff’s Department as security at the Wells County Court House. He loved animals especially his dog, Shadow and cat, Cassie.
On December 2, 1990, Michael and Linda M. (Winkler) were married in Bluffton, Indiana.
Survivors include his wife of 34 years, Linda of Markle, along with a son, Benjamin R. (Alexis) Benson of Huntington and a daughter, Emelia Benson of Fort Wayne. He was a loving grandpa to 3 grandchildren, & Lil Benson, and 2 foster grandchildren, his father, Buddy R. (Sallie) Benson of South Carolina and a sister, Julie Dull of Berne.
He is preceded in death by his mother, Carol (Wingert) Benson, maternal grandmother, Alice Wingert and paternal grandparents, Bart & Neva Benson and 3 angel grandbabies.
A Celebration of Michael’s life will be held at 5 P.M. on Saturday (August 31, 2024) at the Thoma/Rich, Lemler Funeral Home in Bluffton with Pastor Jason Fields officiating. Visitation will be held from 1 P.M. to 5 P.M. on Saturday at the funeral home, prior to the service.
Memorials may be made to the Friends of the Wells County Animal Shelter or your local humane society or to Miriam’s Foster Closet and can be directed to the funeral home.
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