Chester "Chet" Terry Benton, Sr.

Chester “Chet” Terry Benton, Sr. of Tawas City, Michigan, formerly of Merrill

Beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend passed away unexpectedly with his family by his side on Sunday, June 19, 2022, at Ascension St. Mary’s Hospital. He was 73 years old. Chester Terry Benton was born on August 6, 1948, in Saginaw, Michigan, the second of six children born to the late Ralph C. and Francis M. (Chasnis) Benton. He proudly served his country by enlisting in the United States Navy and was stationed in Vietnam during the Vietnam War. He received many awards and commendations until his honorable discharge. Upon his return, Chet began working for Saginaw Steering Gear Plant 7 as a pin grinder, retiring after 30 years of loyal and dedicated service from Delphi. He was a longtime member of U.A.W. 699. He married the love of his life, Lori Margaret Hodges, September 5, 1982; she preceded him in death on July 18, 2010. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting and fishing. Chet was a gifted guitarist, learning to play the guitar from his father. He and his siblings, at every family gathering, would play Hank Williams, Sr. songs.  Chet also enjoyed playing Euchre with his siblings. Following retirement, he could be found watching John Wayne classic Western movies or riding on both his Kubota or golf cart. Above all, he loved and cherished his wife, children, and grandchildren.

Surviving are a son, Andrew Terry (Lewsi) Benton of Oscoda; two grandsons: Andrew James Benton and Patrick Michael Benton of Oscoda; two brothers: Gilford (Kelly) Benton of Saginaw; Kenneth “Kenny” Benton of Saginaw. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 27 years, Lori Margaret Benton; parents, Ralph and Frances Benton; a brother and two sisters: Ralph Benton, Mary Morford and Barbara (James) Priest.

Arrangements are incomplete at this time.