Earnest T. Benson, age 72 a lifelong resident of Stanwood, passed away Monday, August 19, 2013 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born July 15, 1941 in Big Rapids, the son of Marshall and Grace (Gerst) Benson. Earnest married Irene Stump on September 7, 1963 in Stanwood at their home, where they raised their family. He liked to hunt, fish, and work in his garden. Earnest enjoyed playing cards and riding quads. He loved his family and he will be missed. Earnest is survived by his three children, Calvin (Shawn) Benson of White Cloud, Tracy (Alvin) Torry of Big Rapids and Colleen (Frank) Plum of Stanwood; seven grandchildren, Elizabeth Kay and Anna Grace Benson, Marie and Jacob Torry, Shanna, Tamara and Jasmine Plum; two brothers, Milton (Judy) Benson of Stanwood and Lawrence (Jean) Benson of Morley; two sisters, Laura Preston of Conklin and Louise Nelson of Morley; a sister-in-law, Carolyn Benson of Sparta; many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife Irene Benson on April 20, 2003; his parents, Marshall and Grace Benson; four brothers, Leo, Floyd, John and William Benson; a sister, Alice Benson; two brothers-in-law, Eugene Preston and John Nelson; a sister-in-law, Nomalee Benson. Funeral services will take place 1:00 p.m. Friday, August 23, 2013 at the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids with Pastor Ron White officiating. The family will greet friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. WEDNESDAY, August 21st at the funeral home and again Friday, August 23rd at 12:00 (noon) until the service begins at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be at Stanwood Cemetery. Memorial contributions in Earnest's name may be made to the American Cancer Society.