March 21, 1948 – April 4, 2024
In the early hours of April 4, Kristen experienced difficulty breathing. Despite administering the prescribed medications provided by the hospice nurse for such occasions, her distress persisted.
After what felt like an eternity, though it was only a few hours, and another round of medication, she found some relief and ceased her struggle, finally able to relax.
“Finally,” I thought, “she can rest.” Glancing at my phone to log the timing of the medication, I noted the time. I remained by her side, immensely relieved that she was finding some respite from her discomfort. Tears welled up, but I stifled them, not wanting to disturb her peace.
Eventually, I realized that her rest was not a temporary reprieve — my resourceful, brave sister was not going to awaken. I couldn’t bring myself to disturb her now. My tears shifted from relief to sorrow.
Kristen Benson departed from this world at the four corners on 4/4/24 at 4:44 a.m., leaving behind a touch of the unusual and dramatic, even in death.
If you knew Kristen well, you likely experienced her storming out in a fury over something you said, only to find her the next day taking you to a doctor’s appointment or running an errand for you. For her, love was an action verb. Kristen could be sharp and ornery, yet always deeply caring, concerned and kind.
In her unique way, she is hosting a celebration on April 20, 2024 at 3 p.m. To join us, please text or call 801-360-3252. Kristen expressly forbade an obituary or somber gathering in her honor. This is solely an announcement, as per her wishes. The event on the 20th will be a joyful gathering, not a tearful memorial.
If it wouldn’t irk her, I would detail Kristen’s heroic deeds in these final months, recount her years of selfless service, and speak of her bravery, unwavering optimism, and quick wit. Kristen was never dull, conventional, mundane, or timid.
“How is Kristen now?” you inquire. Those of us who knew her in life can say with certainty: She is truly and finally “damn fine.”
Kristen Benson, also known as Kristen Benson Cleary, born March 21, 1948, passed away on April 4, 2024, due to cancer. She was the daughter of Margaret Jane Benson (née Todd) and Theodore Nelson Benson, born in Logan, Utah. She is survived by her sisters, Elizabeth Cutler (Jim), Carolinda Benson, nephew Noel Benson (Suzette), all residing in Springdale, Utah, niece Emily Cutler of Millbury, Ohio, and nephew Matthew Cutler of Chicago.