James Everett Benton

It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved father. James “Jim” Everett Benton passed away at his home on October 28, 2024, surrounded by his loved ones. He was 75 years old. Jim fought a long and hard battle with cancer and the courage and strength he showed everyday was an inspiration to all. Jim was a man of extraordinary character and unwavering love, he was the cornerstone of our family, embodying strength, kindness and integrity. His warm smile and hearty laughter filled our lives with joy, creating memories that will forever be etched in our hearts.

Jim was a man of unshakable strength, boundless love and gentle wisdom. He touched the lives of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Jim was not just a father; he was a guiding light, a steadfast supporter and a source of endless encouragement. His laughter filled our lives with joy, and he pushed and inspired us to be our best selves. As we mourn his loss, we celebrate the remarkable life he lived and the legacy of love he leaves behind in our hearts. Jim possessed a wisdom that transcended words; he taught us the value of hard work, the importance of compassion, and the strength found in vulnerability. His devoted belief in us gave us the courage to pursue our dreams and the resilience to face life’s challenges head-on. He was a constant source of encouragement, always reminding us that we were capable of achieving anything we set our minds to. He was one of our biggest supporters and he was proud of any accomplishments his children and grandchildren made.

As we navigate this profound loss, we are comforted by the amazing legacy he leaves behind. A legacy of love that will continue to guide us. His spirit will forever live on in our hearts, reminding us to cherish one another, embrace life’s joys, and face challenges with strength and courage, and while we might fall down at times, you always dust yourself off and get back up. We are eternally grateful for the time we shared and we will carry his memory with us always.

Jim was born on December 14, 1948 in Grand Junction, Co to Bernard Benton and Cora Della Krohn. After graduating from Grand Junction High School in the Class of 1968, Jim joined the United States Army and proudly served as a Military Policeman, dedicating three tours in Vietnam. His commitment to duty and service in challenging circumstances exemplified his strong character and sense of honor. Throughout his time in the Army, he was recognized with multiple awards for his bravery and exemplary performance, including an Army Commendation Metal and Three Bronze Stars. This reflected not only his dedication to his country but also his profound respect for his fellow soldiers.

Jim was a dedicated businessman who worked in many jobs throughout his life, but nothing made him happier than being a father and grandfather. He loved his family more than anything, finding joy and fulfillment in their love and time together. A lifelong fan of the outdoors, Jim enjoyed hunting and fishing, spending countless seasons making memories with his children and grandchildren in nature. Besides his outdoor adventures, he had a talent for gardening, taking pride in growing his plants and sharing the harvest with family and friends. Jim was also a skilled artist and poet, expressing his creativity in different ways. His artwork and poems showed the beauty he saw in the world, leaving a lasting inspiration and love for everyone who knew him.

Jim is Preceded in death by his father Bernard “Dusty” Benton, his mother Cora Dell “Cordell” Krohn, Sisters Donna Miller and Betty Ann “Susie” Steel, his Grandchildren Isaac Moyano, Natalia Trevino, Sean Colunga and Kiara Colunga

Jim is Lovingly remembered and survived by his sisters, Barbara Ann Stanley and Patricia Merriman, both of Grand Junction. His children, Nisha Benton, Shelly Colunga (Chris Moyano) and Dustin Benton (Michelle Evans), all of Grand Junction, CO. His Grandchildren, Ian Metzger of Las Vegas, NV, Christopher Moyano, Nicholas Colunga, Breckin Benton and Brieze Benton, all of Grand Junction, and his nephew Michael Stanley (Sandy) of Oshkosh, WI.

Funeral Service will be held on Monday, November 25, 2024 at 3:00pm at The Veterans Memorial Cemetery of Western Colorado. 2830 Riverside Parkway, Grand Junction, CO 81501.

A Celebration of Jim’s life will be held immediately following the service at The Bookcliff Country Club. 2730 G Road, Grand Junction, CO 81506.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jim’s name to Disabled Veterans of America or Hopewest Palliative Care of Grand Junction.