Derek Ronald Benson

Derek Ronald Benson, age 73, of Auburn passed away on Thursday, September 9, 2021 at his Auburn home.

Mr. Benson was born on May 3, 1948 in Swansea, Wales, United Kingdom to James Ronald and Gladys Mae (Taylor) Benson.

Derek honorably served his country in the United States Navy.  He was stationed on the USS Georgetown during the Vietnam War. 

He married Diana Cay Hile on September 3, 1977 in Fort Wayne.  She resides in Auburn.

Derek worked for Joslyn Steel Company which later became Slater Steel in Fort Wayne for 30 years retiring in 1998.  He attended the Auburn Reformed Baptist Church.  He enjoyed volunteering much of his time with Inspiration Ministries through the Cup Bearer Café in Auburn.  Derek also enjoyed riding his bike and spending time outside, especially windy days.  He said it reminded him of being on the ship during his time in the Navy.  Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grand kids. 

Survivors include: 

His wife; Diana Benson of Auburn

Son and daughter-in-law; Charles and Tiffany Benson of Auburn.

Daughter; Desrea Brown of Garrett.

Son and daughter-in-law; Alex and Ashley Benson of Lakewood Ranch, Florida.

Daughter and son-in-law; Beth and Gary Zartman of Fort Wayne.

Nine grandchildren; Jace, Korah, Deakin, Aidan, Keagan, Stella, Addison, Derek and George.

Sister and brother-in-law; Eileen and Colin Taylor of Fort Wayne.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 17, 2021 from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at the Feller and Clark Funeral Home, 1860 South Center Street in Auburn.

Funeral services will follow the visitation on Friday at 7:00 PM at the funeral home.  

Military honors for Mr. Benson will be held prior to the visitation on Friday at 3:45 PM at the funeral home.

Burial will take place at Covington Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Fort Wayne on Saturday, September 18, 2021 at 11:00 AM.

Memorial donations may be directed to Inspiration Ministries, 138 East Seventh Street, Auburn, Indiana 46706.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.fellerandclark.com and on our Facebook page at Feller and Clark Funeral Homes.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Feller and Clark Funeral Home in Auburn.