Rick Benson, 67, of Columbus, Nebraska, died Friday, May 8, 2020, at the Columbus Community Hospital.

Due to Covid-19, a private service will be held at Gass Haney Funeral Home on Wednesday, May 13, 10:00 A.M. with Pastor Mike Escen officiating. The funeral service will be broadcast live on the Gass Haney Facebook page.

The family of Rick has offered the following option for those who would like to offer their condolences to Coach Benson's family.

On Tuesday, May 12 the family will be outside their home from 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm if you would like to drive by and share a wave or honk, in remembrance of Coach Benson. Requesting you do this with your family. No traveling with people outside of your family. Again, this is due to the local health recommendations, and the desire to not aid in the spreading of the virus.

461 S Deer Creek Place (House is just east of entrance to Quail Run)

Those wishing to offer a card of condolence or a note of remembrance, cards will be collected using appropriate social distancing. Memorials may be directed to the Columbus Rescue Mission or the Columbus Christian School.

Rick was born on July 7, 1952, in Sioux City, Iowa, to Edgar and Mary (Marmo) Benson. He graduated from Sioux City East in 1971 and attained his Bachelor's Degree from the University of Northern Iowa. Rick went on to earn his Master's Degree from Wayne State College. On April 3, 1981, Rick was united in marriage to Jeanie Pearson in Sioux City. They moved to Columbus where Rick was an assistant wrestling coach and taught drafting. In 1985, he became the head wrestling coach where he had much success until he gave that up in 2014. He was also the Columbus High golf coach which he continued to do. Rick was a faithful member of Highland Park Church where he served the Lord in many capacities. He loved to spend time with his family and play a round or two of golf.

Rick is survived by:
Wife: Jeanie Benson
Son: Derek Benson
Son: Jonathan (Rachelle) Benson, and son Callen Benson
Daughter: Michelle (Jonathan) Coffman, and children Ava, Helaena, Scarlett and Brolin Coffman
Brother: Duane (Sherri) Benson
Brother: Mike (Ruth) Benson
Sister: Sue (Gary) Munson
Brother: Reverend Steve (Marijo) Benson
Brother: Reverend Ron Benson
Sister: Dar (Terry) Allison

Rick was preceded in death by:
Parents: Edgar & Mary Benson