John "Jack" Owen Benson

John "Jack" Owen Benson 1939 – 2023

John “Jack” Benson, 83, of Rockford, Illinois passed away November 6, 2023, after experiencing a sudden stroke. Born December 1st, 1939, in Rockford, the son of John Benson and Gunhild "Gunny" Benson, Jack was a life-long Rockford resident. He graduated from West High in 1957, and Rockford College in 1962. He then served in the Army from May of 1963 to May of 1965 stationed in Germany. Returning home to Rockford, Jack followed a career in the banking industry where he worked for 40 years in a variety of positions, including President of First Bank of Loves Park and First Bank of Roscoe, and Executive Vice President at First National Bank & Trust, Alpine Bank, and Union Savings Bank.

Jack married JoAnn Tiehen on April 15, 1967. Together they had four children, Karen (Jonnard), Craig, Kirk, Kent, and five grandchildren. Jack loved his family, all of whom brought out the smile those who knew Jack well will always remember. When not spending time with his family, he enjoyed golfing with his friends, fishing, playing bridge, his West High reunion committee meetings, and being a Bears fan.

Jack was honored to contribute to the community he loved, being involved in numerous boards and organizations over the years. He was a 30-year member and past President of Loves Park Rotary club, a Board Member of the Boys & Club of Rockford, and past President of the American Heart Association.

JoAnn, Jack’s wife of 50 years, and his dear son, Kent, preceded him in death and he missed them every day. His son-in-law, Bill Jonnard also preceded him in death.

Jack will be greatly missed by his surviving children and grandchildren, Karen Jonnard of Boise, ID; son Craig and daughter-in-law Katie Benson of Chicago, IL, their children, Morgan, Brooke, and Connor; son Kirk and daughter-in-law Sarah Benson of Mount Prospect, IL, their sons, Tommy and Danny; and his sister Jill Porzel and nephew Jerry Porzel.

A visitation is planned for Saturday morning, November 18th, from 10:00 - 12:00 pm at the Third Presbyterian Church, 1221 Custer Ave, Rockford, IL 61103.  Funeral services will be held directly after the visitation at the church. Burial to follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jack's honor to the Boys & Girls Club of Rockford or the Third Presbyterian Church.  Remembrances and condolences may be shared at sundbergfh.com

Sundberg Funeral Home is caring for the family. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John "Jack" Owen Benson, please visit our floral store.