WOODRUFF, Wis. - Frances "Twiggy" Benton, 91, passed away peacefully with loved ones by her side on June 17, 2019, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Fran was born in Wakefield, Mich., to John and Victoria Russ on Dec. 8, 1927. In 1947 she married Robert O. Benton, who preceded her in death in 1992. Fran resided in Ironwood since 1968.
Fran was known for her big personality and sense of humor. She enjoyed gardening, fishing, and cooking. Her chicken and dumpling soup and peanut butter balls were family favorites and will always be a reminder of her. She will be missed by her 10 great-grandchildren who enjoyed sitting with their dear Nanny in front of the fireplace.
Fran was a mother to Carol Kidwell of St. Cloud, Minn. and Nancy (Chris) Dobrinski of Minocqua and was a grandmother to Brad Benton (Crystal), Greg Benton, Becky Pietrocatelli (Josh), and Sara Dobrinski. Fran is also survived by two of her eight siblings, Mary Glenz and Patricia Singleton, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held Saturday, June 22, from 10-11 a.m. in the St. Joseph Family Room at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church in Ironwood. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. with the Rev. Msgr. Jed Patrick, celebrant.
Pallbearers will be Chris Dobrinski, Josh Pietrocatelli, Greg Barto, and Brad, Greg, and Tyler Benton.
Rite of Committal and interment will follow in Riverside Cemetery in Ironwood.
McKevitt-Patrick Funeral Home, Ironwood, is assisting the family. For more information or to express online condolences, visit mckevittpatrickfuneralhome.com.