Kenneth Benner

May 15, 1937 - April 1, 2021
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Marana Mortuary & Cemetery
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Obituary

Kenneth J. Benner, loving husband and father, 83, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2021 in Tucson, Az. with family by his side after a brief illness.

Ken was born in St Paul, Mn. to Lloyd and Theresa Benner on May 15, 1937. He was a Navy veteran stationed in Eritrea, North Africa, and aboard the USS Vermilion.

After discharge, he began a successful career in broadcasting. In 1961, he married Karen Ahlsted. Ken would say, “59 years and never an argument.” They were blessed and very proud of their three sons, Kent, Kevin, and Kelly.

In between broadcasting, he was an employee of Greyhound for 25 years.

Ken was a founding member of the Society of Broadcast Engineers (SBE); an amateur radio operator (WOLHV); National Press Club; and writer of many broadcast articles published nationally.

He was known nationwide for his dedicated work as an Alternative Broadcast Inspector.

As president of the American Council on Consumer Awareness, he frequently traveled to Washington, DC to advocate against credit file abuse. He was a 50 year member of the Consumer Federation of America (CFA).

Ken was a member of the Knights of Columbus and Veterans Assn.

Ken is survived by loving wife, Karen; son, Kent (Mary), children Sarah, Jacob, Emily; son, Kevin (Amanda), children Lila and Adeline; son, Kelly; and comfort cat, Sparky; sister, Arlis Dragovich; and brother-in-law David (Phyllis) Ahlsted.

A Mass and memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 15, 2021 at 10:30am at Church of Our Lady of the Desert, 7101 W. Picture Rocks Rd, Tucson 85743.  The Benner families are very grateful for celebrating Ken’s life with them.

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Timeline for Kenneth Benner

Born: May 15, 1937
Died: April 1, 2021

Condolences for Kenneth Benner

Marana Mortuary & Cemetery

Our sincere condolences.

The staff of Marana Mortuary & Cemetery.

 

Jim Stokes posted on 8/22/21

In memory of Kenneth Benner, Jim Stokes lit a candle

 

Jim Stokes posted on 8/22/21

Ken Benner was a great friend of mine. He starred in my movie BEETHOVEN'S TENTH as the famed composer. He helped me through some rough times in the media. He always had great advice. I surely miss him and think of him and Karen often. As a composer, he taught me musical harmony. Invaluable knowledge.

 

Jason Silverman posted on 8/8/21

I was one of Ken's passengers on Greyhound, I rode with him between Minneapolis and Billings, we kept in touch for a while after he retired from the "dirty dog". He even wrote a newspaper article about me and another passenger. I am sorry that we lost contact after he relocated to Tucson, but he was one of my favorite bus drivers. RIP friend.

 

Fr. Edward Vella, CSsR posted on 4/20/21

Ken was always so good to me. Every time he met up with me he would give me some sort of useful trinket - notebook, flashlight (3 kinds!) . I look forward to celebrating his life with all of you.

 

Kim Hackett posted on 4/19/21

Karen and family- So very sorry to hear of the passing of Ken. He visited our stations many times in Carroll, IA doing his FCC inspections. May all your wonderful memories of him bring you comfort and peace. Our sympathies to you all. Sincerely- Kim and everyone at KCIM/KKRL/KIKD Radio

 

Kim Hackett posted on 4/19/21

Karen and family- So very sorry to hear of the passing of Ken. He visited our stations many times in Carroll, IA doing his FCC inspections. May all your wonderful memories of him bring you comfort and peace. Our sympathies to you all. Sincerely- Kim and everyone at KCIM/KKRL/KIKD Radio

 

David Nutter, Casper, Wyoming posted on 4/8/21

Our world is a lesser place without Ken Benner in it. He spent his life serving people and family, I feel blessed to have known Ken for over a quarter century. My thoughts and prayers are with Karen and the boys. Rest in peace my friend.

 

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