Charlene Benjamin | 1935 - 2024
Obituaries-Pierre / Posted Apr 9, 2024 | 4:46 PM / 208 views
PIERRE, SD – Charlene A. Benjamin, 88, of Pierre passed away peacefully on April 6, 2024 at her home. A memorial service will be held at 2:00pm on Saturday, April 20th at Calvary United Pentecostal Church in Pierre. Her cremains will be buried next to her husband in Worthington Minnesota on July 5th.
Born on July 1, 1935, in Worthington, Minnesota, to Clifford and Hazel (Lukehart) Hartman, Charlene grew up and attended school in Worthington. On June 10, 1952, she married the love of her life, Harry Benjamin, in Dakota City, Nebraska, embarking on a journey that would see them travel and build a family together.
As the wife of a military man, Charlene’s life was characterized by the many moves and travels she undertook alongside her husband. Despite the challenges of a transient lifestyle, she created a loving home wherever they went. Charlene’s open-door policy made her residence a haven for friends and family alike. She was affectionately known as a grandma to all, not just to her own grandchildren, but to everyone who knew her.
Charlene’s kitchen was the heart of her home, filled with the sweet aroma of baked goods and the warmth of her welcoming spirit. She loved to bake and took great joy in feeding everyone who walked through her door.
Her sense of humor was one of her most endearing qualities. Charlene loved to make people laugh and often referred to herself as the queen of everything, a title bestowed upon her by one of her children through a playful plaque.
She is lovingly remembered by her children: Susan Benjamin of Colorado, Connie Bolei of Minnesota, Barbara Benjamin of South Dakota, Harry Benjamin of Minnesota, Jack Benjamin of South Dakota, and Jerry Benjamin of Indiana. She is also survived by her sister, Carole Hoefker, her 13 grandchildren, and 18 great-grandchildren.
Charlene was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Harry, her three brothers, and one sister.
Charlene’s life was a testament to the power of faith, family, and a warm sense of humor.
In leiu of flowers memorials can be directed to Calvary United Pentecostal Church (2410 Stanton Dr., Pierre SD 57501).
