Vern Leroy “Sam” Benth, 53, of Williston, North Dakota, passed away Tuesday night, May 2, 2017 surrounded by his loving family.
A memorial service celebrating Sam’s life was held Monday afternoon at First Lutheran Church in Williston. Rev. Martin Mock officiated and burial of the cremated remains will take place at a later date in the Riverview Cemetery in Williston.
A family gathering open to the public was held Sunday at Everson Coughlin Funeral Home.
Vern was born January 16, 1964 to Vernon and Mildred Benth. As the third child he received a lot of attention from his big sisters. Sam received his education in Williston and graduated in 1982. He worked at Western Sports, Inc alongside his parents, brother and one sister.
Sam married Krysty Willis in 1989, but the marriage later dissolved. No children were born to this union. After Western Sports closed due to his parent’s retirement, Sam worked at Coast to Coast and Tractor Supply. He later joined Martinson’s and became a skilled tile layer. Sam took great pride in his work and as each job was finished, he took pictures of his artistry. He was praised for his accuracy and perfection with tile.
Sam had to retire early due to heart issues and was later diagnosed with cancer. He had a unique sense of humor and was a kid at heart. He loved his nieces and nephews joking and playing pranks on them.
Sam leaves behind his mother, Milly (Lee) Benth; sisters, Connie (Dave) Tofte, Suzanne (Gene) Snyder; brother, RJ (Juvy) Benth; and nephews, Mike (Edie) Tofte, Dustin (Melissa) Buth; nieces, Michaela (Garrett) Rehak and Veronica Benth; he also leaves behind their children, Myah and Evan Tofte, Mason, Eli and Abby Buth and McKenna and Gavin Rehak; his aunts and an uncle; and many cousins.
Sam was preceded in death by both sets of grandparents; his father Vern in 1999 and several aunts and uncles.
Sam will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him.
Friends may visit www.eversoncoughlin.com to share remembrances of Sam or leave condolences for his family. Friends may call at the Everson Coughlin Funeral Home on Sunday, May 7th from 1:00 PM until 5:00 PM and for the hour preceding the service at the church on Monday, May 8th.
The Everson Coughlin Funeral Home of Williston is caring for the family.
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