Benton Mckenzie

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Benton Neil McKenzie

January 29, 1942 – July 7, 2025

Benton Neil McKenzie, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2025, in Paul, Idaho, at the age of 83. He was born on January 29, 1942, in Jackson, Idaho, to Coy Conley McKenzie and Evelyn Marie Craven. Raised on a farm, Benton learned the value of hard work from an early age and carried that ethic throughout his life.

A master welder and pipe fitter by trade, Benton was a true craftsman who could fix anything. He spent years as a dedicated truck driver and was never afraid to get his hands dirty. Benton was known for his love of the outdoors—whether he was hunting, horseback riding, camping, or taking spontaneous trips to the desert with his family, he lived life with adventure and purpose.

He had a gift for storytelling, a laugh that could lift your spirits, and a presence that made everyone feel at home. Benton proudly coached all of his kids’ sports teams and was a “grandpa” to many—not just to his own grandchildren, but to countless friends and neighbors who were drawn in by his warmth and generosity.

Above all, Benton loved his family with a passion beyond belief. He was the kind of man who showed up when you needed him, made people laugh even on their hardest days, and lived his life centered around service, love, and especially family. 

Benton had a quick wit and always had a clever comeback—right up to the very end. He had a deep love for Western movies. To his family, he wasn’t just a fan of the genre—he was their John Wayne: strong, steady, and larger than life.

Benton is preceded by his parents Coy Conley McKenzie and Evelyn Marie Craven and his daughter Katie Shirlynn McKenzie, his sister’s Connie Jones, Coyeen Newcomb, Pam Anderson, and his brother Scott McKenzie.  

He is survived by his wife LaRue McKenzie, his siblings Nancy Walter, Viki Wood, .along with his 12 children Tami, Kyle, Trina, Kent, Kalen, Tanette, Michael, James, John, Coulter, Calli, and Trenton and many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Memorial Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, July 18, 2025, at the Emerald 2nd Ward building, located at 300 South 500 West Heyburn, ID. with a Visitation for family and friends one hour prior to the services at the church.           

Benton leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and hard work—and a community of people who will miss him dearly. The family requested no flowers. Arrangements are under the direction of Joel Heward Hansen Mortuary.

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