William Earl Benskin
January 15, 2016
William Earl Benskin, age 89, passed away peacefully January 15, 2016 surrounded by his family.
William was born in Kansas City, MO to Esther (Lindblom) and Earl Benskin. After graduating from Lincoln High School in Des Moines he attended the University of Iowa, earning a scholarship in football. Upon his 18th birthday he was drafted into the Navy, after serving his term proudly he attended Drake University. Bill lettered in track and graduated with his Bachelor’s degree.
He soon accepted a job with Plain Talk, working his way up to the General Mananger, Bill worked there for 20 years, before himself and his wife, Donna founded the company, The Printer Inc. The company grew rapidly and after just a few short years they employed over 150 people. In 2002 President George W. Bush visited the business and gave a live broadcast speech to the United States from The Printer Inc.
After Bill’s retirement he went to work full-time as a grandfather. He became the full time transporter, supporter and fan of all of his grandchildren. Some of the best times they shared were the 40 years at Lake Okoboji, the house constantly filled with the grandkids.
Bill was a Salesman’s Salesman. A statement that all who know him would agree with. He also loved to garden and read, but his true passion in life was the love he held for his grandchildren.
Left to cherish William’s memory include his loving wife of 70 years, Donna Lee(Morningstar) Benskin; son, William Benskin and Susan Benskin; their children, William, Mitchell and Theresa; son, Martin and Susan Benskin; their children, Karoline, Christine (Ryan) and Alexander (Kristina); daughter, Donella Benskin; her children, Jack (Nina), Grant and Charla Holdren; great-grandchildren, Dillon, Stella, Benjamin and Marie.
A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at a later date.
“If he could do it all over again, there’s nothing Bill Benskin would change.”
Memorial contributions may be directed toward Living History Farms, in memory of Bill.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com
Michele Earhart Givan
01/20/2016
I met Bill through Sheila Cochran Ploeger & we both have such wonderful memories at Lake Okoboji throughout the years; you would never meet a nicer man than Bill. My thoughts and prayers are with the Benskin family at this time.
Kathy Webb Wikert
01/19/2016
That Bill enjoyed and cared about people was evident from the first meeting. Being included in several Benskin family weekends as a teenager left me with a life long love of camping and lake life. I am grateful for the generous spirits of Bill and Donna.
William Eike
01/19/2016
How sad it was to hear about the passing of Bill.I didnt get the chance to talk with him much over the years but what he and your family had accomplished in such a short amount of time was a testament to his values as well as those of his family. I wish you all the best in this difficult time
Jeffrey Barber / Philip Barber
01/19/2016
The Benskin family,
Please accept our deepest condolences at this sad time. Bill was always a gracious man.
He always treated both Phil and I with respect, that meant a lot to both of us.
I am sure Bill will be missed by all those he encountered over the years.
Very sorry for your loss
Jeff / Phil
Donna & Dick Mau
01/19/2016
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you and your families. He was a great neighbor and fun to visit with. Our deepest sympathies!
David and Linda Wilson
01/18/2016
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this difficult time. We wish them all the solace and peace that can be found with one another and friends, sharing fond memories of time well spent with Bill.
I have a memory of Bill around 2001 I think, having fallen out of the workout habit and feeling a bit down and sluggish. But then he straightened his back, set his jaw and resolutely headed for the gym and Mr. Dado. His resilient spirit, the one that did not give up, always makes me smile. Rest in peace well-earned.
Marlene Anderson
01/18/2016
Bill was one of my favorite people in life. That's a term I use sparingly, reserving it for the "white pillars" who are spellbinding and fascinating, ones who have influenced me in one way or another as I matured, due to their wisdom, sense of humor, generosity, intelligence and kindness. I met Bill when I was in my twenties, when he had just founded The Printer, Inc. As a customer and friend, I loved to hear his stories . . . the success and rewards he was experiencing in his family and business life. He retired, I veered into other paths in my career and we lost touch, but that doesn't mean that I haven't been touched by this great man. The torch has been passed; may those who follow not only walk in his footsteps but also fill his shoes. I join you in your sadness and sorrow.
john chambers
01/18/2016
i'm so sorry to learn of bill's passing. i got to know bill primarily at lake okoboji as my parents dr. jim and molly chambers had a home on the east end of jones beach. my dad and i often walked west down jones beach. we'd run into bill usually with some grandkids and exchange pleasantries.
he was a very gracious; gregarious; and, humorous man.
he surely will be missed.
my thoughts and prayers are with the benskin family.
sincerely,
john s. chambers
Dorothy MIller
01/18/2016
My thoughts and prayers are with the Benskin family. Bill was the heart and soul of The Printer Inc. for many years. Always had a kind word and made you feel as though you mattered. God's Blessings to all who knew and cared about this true gentleman. May Bill rest in peace!
John Gurwell
01/18/2016
My condolences to the Benskin family. I'm very sorry for your loss.
Ken and Kathy Spratt
01/18/2016
My Heartfelt condolences to the Benskin Family. Though tears fall now I'm still happy and forever grateful that Bill and Donna touched me and my families life. We thank you, we love you and God bless you. (Rest in peace Mr. Benskin.)
Mike Page
01/17/2016
As a former employee of TPI, I always enjoyed Bill's stories and tales.
My condolences to Donna and the Benskin family
RIP Bill.
Gene and Jane Cutler
01/17/2016
I was fortunate to be considered Bill's friend since the early 1950's. We were friendly sales competitors traveling the roads of Iowa. Bill was not only a super salesman, but a super friend! We had a friendship that continued through the years, always enjoying his slightly exaggerated but humerous stories of the "old days"! I'm pleased that Bill and I had a couple of lengthy visits just two weeks ago. We solved the problems of life. With a tear in my eye, I know Bill is smiling. My sympathy's to Donna and all of the Benskin family.
Gene and Jane Cutler
Sheila Cochran Ploeger
01/17/2016
I have never met anyone as kind hearted as Bill Sr! He loved life, his family and grandkids! He gave so much to those of us blessed to be called a friend to the family! I was truly blessed and touched by knowing this wonderful person and his family! I will greatly miss him! Prayers and hugs to all of the Benskin family, and thank you for all you have done for me!
Dave Rittman
01/17/2016
One of the finest gentlemen I ever met. RIP and condolences to all the family.