Areta Benson Jensen
July 16, 1913 - January 16, 2013
In her 100th year of life at exactly 99 years and 6 months, Areta Benson Jensen passed away on January 16, 2013. Indeed, she and life were long together, she was loved by many – mother, grandmother, great grandmother, friend and teacher to ALL. She was born July 16, 1913, in Centerville, Utah, to Romania and Ezra Taft Benson. This indomitable soul leaves behind a remarkable legacy. Her exhilarating philosophy of life came from a radiant spark within. Memorable are her wealth of stories, sage wisdom, vast vocabulary, unique expressions, delightful sense of humor, exuberant enthusiasm and lively energy. Her very demeanor was scintillating.
She and Dwight Cunningham Jensen were quite the duo. He always called her Bens and, of course, he was her Jens. Both were strong willed and independent individuals and each was descended from original Mormon pioneer stock. They were married in the Salt Lake City Temple sealed for time and all eternity. They named their only child, a daughter, Marilyn Benson Jensen. The Benson was an equal part of Areta to add to Dwight's Jensen. The business of their lives was to go forward through pleasant and cloudy weather. They were married 47 years.
A Modern Dance/Physical Education major, Areta was a graduate of the University of Utah. She did graduate work at UCLA. To the very end of her life, people marveled at her resilience and mighty constitution. As an educator for 38 years in the Salt Lake City schools, Areta taught students the benefit of exercise and a healthy lifestyle, the grace and beauty of dance, and her forte' – English. Always known for her vibrancy and teaching excellence, accolades continue to abound.
Her life's compass was directed on a constant course of right thought, correct choice and truly praiseworthy behavior.
Survived by her daughter Marilyn Benson Jensen (Robert D. Carnahan); grandson Joshua Dwight Krason (Kirsten Sue Curtis); great grandson: Jett Joshua Krason; great granddaughter Jane Marie Krason; niece Nancy Miller. Affectionately remembered by many nieces, nephews and numerous friends. Predeceased by her husband, parents, three sisters and three brothers.
We will PERSERVE HER MEMORY.
A funeral service will be held Tuesday, January 22nd at 1:00pm at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City, where friends may begin to greet the family two hours prior to services. Interment to follow at Centerville City Cemetery.
In Loving Memory
My dearest MBJ. Holding you and your family close to my heart and lifting you up. I will always remember what someone said to me: :"She must have been a remarkable woman to have born and raised you into the unique and womderful person YOU are." I wish you peace,
Thom Blackmore
Burbank, Ca
Dearest Marilyn and Josh and Families: My heart is with you all on the passing of precious Areta. Her friendship meant a lot to me. Talking to her was like being with a peer. I'll always remember our trips to Costco when MBJ was flying or away. We would share a polish dog and chat, then come back to her house for tea. Treasured memories. I loved her dearly and I KNOW how much she loved her friends and especially her family. She will be missed. Love and blessings to you. Anita
Anita Krotz
Salt Lake City, Ut
Marilyn and Joshua, my thoughts and prayers are with you. She gave you many great memories, she is at peace.
Keith Keyser
Mekele, Ethiopia, nan
I had forgotten about the passions of your Mother's life - teaching - and especially english. Now I know where you have gained your ability with words and narrative. You are a beautiful reminder of the tenacity of your Mother and her commitment to living life to it's fullest. Long live your memories of this grand woman and long live our love for each other!!!
Valerie Telford
Provo, UT
I was a counselor at Highland High in the late '60's, early 70's when I encountered a senior girl who had given up on the hope of graduating because she was on her 2nd or 3rd try at passing a required Health class. She told me clearly in four letter words that none of her family had ever graduated and she was satisfied that neither would she. i asked Mrs. Jensen if she could help. Lunch hours and extra encouragement on Aret a's part pulled the young lady through. She marched in commencement with tears in her eyes. It was a privilege to have known and worked with a devoted and kind teacher like Mrs. Jensen!!
Roger Tucker
Salt Lake City, nan
Dear Marilyn, We just returned from a trip to Seattle. (On Delta of course) I read the obituary for your dear mother, Areta. I know now where you got your wonderful character, wisdom, spirit and loving heart. Your devotion and love for your mother was so admirable. You, like your mother, have combined all that is the best of the Benson and the Jensen legacy. Wishing you and Josh all the very best. Your friend forever. Keyte
Keyte L. Hanson
Springville, Ut
��?wietna sprawa, nekdieiy wygl��?dasz jak ma��?a dziewczynka, nie wi��™cej ni���� 15 lat a na niektf3rych zdj��™ciach jak dojrza��?a kobieta- rewelacja. nie wiem o co chodzi, o uj��™cie, ��?wiat��?o czy ubranie, ale ju���� od dawna obserwuj��™ tak��? zale����no��?��?:)pozdrawiam!
Janeth
SutlvysNFDvtrwsG, Do