Donna Benson

Donna Marie Benson, 95, of Red Wing, died Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at her home, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on June 10, 1930 in Kerkhoven, MN to Theodore and Esther (Holmberg) Vaale. At a young age her family moved to Red Wing. She graduated in 1948, from Red Wing Central High School. On March 5, 1949, she was united in marriage to Royce Benson. They were blessed with four daughters, Cher, Karen, Lori and Krissy. Donna worked many years in retail mainly at Ferrin’s Furniture in the gift shop, Usem’s Furniture and Bed and Bath Treasures, but she also worked several years at Boxruds, Ehlers and Jostens. She was a member of First Lutheran Church, American Legion and VFW Auxiliaries and the Red Wing Elks.

Donna was an avid reader and enjoyed doing jigsaw puzzles along with dancing. She liked fashion, the color purple and always dressed for the occasion. Most importantly, her family brought her great joy and they recall many special memories shared together along with a lot of laughter.

Donna is survived by her four daughters, Cher Marie of Pepin, Karen (William) Harvey of Florida, Lori (Brian) Nelson of Goodhue and Krissy (Jon Krebsbach) Owens of Red Wing; nine grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Royce on October 28, 2007.

Memorial service will be 3 p.m. Friday, January 2, 2026, at First Lutheran Church in Red Wing with Reverend Quinlan Koch officiating. Burial will be at a later date to the Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be for one hour prior to the service at the church. Arrangements are by the Mahn Family Funeral Home, Bodelson-Mahn Chapel.