Todd Michael Benson

Todd Michael Benson, born on August 7, 1959, at McKennen Hospital in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, passed away on December 25, 2024, at the University of Minnesota Riverside Hospital in Minneapolis, Minnesota. His daughter Michelle and his son-in-law Jake were by his side as he took his final breaths.

Todd was preceded in death by his father, Earnest "Pete" Benson; his mother, Mary Benson; his foster father, Harsey Scott II; and his brother-in-law, Chuck Novak. He is deeply cherished and remembered by many family members and friends. Among them are his children: Michelle (Jake) Zoccoli, Peter Benson, and Michael Benson; his grandchildren: Kiara Hill, Juniper Zoccoli, Oliver Zoccoli, and Hazel Zoccoli; his siblings: Sherri (Jeff) Larson, Bob (Cindy) Benson, Lori (Todd) Worthington, Brad Benson, and Cathy Novak; his foster mother Janet Scott; and his foster siblings: Denise Green, Harsey Scott III, Leenay (Gary) Doll, Paul (Kristi) Scott, and Trina (Brian) Hinnenkamp.

Todd was a character and loved telling stories from the many jobs he had over the years, which included running a ServiceMaster business in the Bemidji/Wadena area and spinning records as a DJ in Willmar. For most of his years prior to his motorcycle accident in 2002, though, Todd worked as a salesman for E. Weinberg Supply & Equipment in St. Louis Park, Minnesota. Starting in the warehouse before working his way up to Equipment Salesman-a role he excelled at-Todd's dedication earned him recognition as Salesman of the Year. A true people-person at heart, he relished building relationships with clients and was known for brightening their mornings with donuts and coffee during early visits.

Todd will be fondly remembered for his sharp sense of humor and his steadfast devotion to the Minnesota Twins baseball team. His laughter was loud and infectious, much like the rest of the Benson family, and he would often shift from grumpy curmudgeon to teasing jokester in the same conversation-keeping everyone on their toes.

May Todd's memory bring comfort to all who knew him and serve as a lasting reminder of the laughter he brought into their lives. He will be missed. A celebration of Todd's life will be held at a later date.