Patrick George Benson

On Sunday, October 11, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with cancer, Patrick George Benson, 81, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loved ones.

Pat was born in Owensboro, Kentucky, on July 21, 1945, to the late Bryson Byron and Josephine Katherine (Moore) Benson. On January 4, 1969, he married the love of his life, Valerie Jean (Blankenship), in Warren, Michigan. Together, they shared more than 57 years of marriage and built a life centered on family.

A proud United States Marine Corps veteran, Pat served during the Vietnam War. He later worked as a skilled trades tinsmith for Chrysler and General Motors. His commitment to helping others continued through 32 years as a paramedic with Richmond/Lenox, Almont, Marlette, and Lapeer County EMS, and 18 years as an Imlay City firefighter. He was named Firefighter of the Year in 2016 and received the Michigan State Firemen’s Association Annual Paul Wilcox Award in 2018.

Pat was also an avid cyclist who competed in mountain bike races, including the Iceman Challenge and the Michigander. He will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, quiet humor, quick one-liners, and unmistakable chuckle. Though a man of few words, he showed his family how deeply he loved them through his steady presence and devotion.

Pat’s greatest joy was his family. His love, strength, and legacy will live on in the stories they share and the memories they hold dear.  “Until we meet again. We love you, and We will miss you always.”

Pat was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Valerie; daughters, Kristin (Lonny) Hill, Erin (Michael) Spicer, and Tyreena (Curtis Smith) Benson; sons, Hayes, Seth, and Isiah; his grandchildren: Chaz (Skye), Chander (Justin), Trae, Tavin, Bryson, Isabella, Dezwan, Demetrius, Diamond, Ravyn, Caeliegh (Hunter), Addison, Isaac, Logan, Taylyn, Maverick, Alyssa, Aiden, Ava, and Alijah. He was blessed with five great-grandchildren: Granger, Jett, Jace, Oaklee, and Myles. He is survived, as well, by his sister, Marion “Marty” (Robert) Wittig of Brownsburg, Indiana, as well as many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his children, Jamar, Sharonda, and Robert, and his sister, Sandra Irwin.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 15, 2026, from 3-8 p.m. at Muir Brothers Funeral Home, 225 N. Main St., Imlay City, Michigan. Pat will be honored for his faithful service with the Imlay City Fire Department with a Fireman’s Walk-Through at 7 p.m.

Funeral services with military honors will take place at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, October 16, 2026, Muir Brothers Funeral Home of Imlay City, with visitation from 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Muir Brothers Funeral Home of Imlay City. To share condolences, memories, or sign the online register, please visit MuirBrothersFH.com.

Memorials are suggested to the Imlay City Fire Association or United Hospice of Marlette.