Linda Benjamin

Linda Joan Benjamin, 71, of Red Wing, passed away from this Earth on Friday, May 16, 2025 at Rochester East Health Services from heart failure. She was born in April of 1954 to Walter and Clara (Freilinger) Benjamin. Linda "Joanie" bonded with many people and animals throughout her years. The first third of her life was in Minneapolis, where she was hit early with heavy hardships. Linda would continue to be washed with waves of struggles during all her years, including the unexpected loss of her eldest son, Robert. Yet, together with her faith and support from loved ones, she walked on and found her moments of happiness.

Starting in early adulthood, Linda moved to Lakeville, Farmington and finally to Red Wing, Minnesota. There she settled for the rest of her years with her youngest son Kyle. Linda devoted her time to advocating for her son while serving proudly as a Pioneer Press carrier for over 30 years. Linda enjoyed chatting with loved ones, watching Disney movies, and the tv show, Criminal Minds.

She was one of a kind and will be remembered by many. Though she will be missed, her family is grateful her earthly struggles are finished and she has been reunited with her eldest son, Robert and other loved ones who have gone before her.

Linda is survived by her child, Kyle Benjamin; longtime companion, Daniel Betzlod and his child, Christopher (Sydney) Betzlod; Kyle's half siblings, Kevin Voight, and Winona Kennebeck; brothers, John Benjamin and Alan Gentili; nieces and nephews, Dennis (Chris) Gentili, David (Mary) Gentili, and Deanna and Daniel Gentili, and Christopher and Eric Benjamin.

She is preceded in death by her son, Robert Benjamin; sisters, Cleo Gentili and Nancy Benjamin; brother, Peter Benjamin; and her parents, Clara and Walter Benjamin.

A memorial service will be held Friday, May 30 at 11 a.m. at the New River Assembly of God Church in Red Wing. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mahnfamilyfuneralhome.com.