John Frederick "Benji" Benjamin Jr., 75, of Cumberland died peacefully Sunday, May 18, 2025 at Cumberland Healthcare after a long battle with Parkinson's. He was born July 8, 1949 in Cumberland to John, Sr. and Lorraine (Quinn Grey) Benjamin, spent his youth in the Cumberland School District and graduated Class of 1967. He spent one year at UW-Superior, and then served with the U.S. Army in Vietnam. He was married at St. Mary's Catholic Church on August 26, 1972 to Lana Loughren and they began their family.

Benji spent nearly thirty years with Cumberland Telephone, which eventually became Centurylink, entering as a lineman and retiring as district manager. During this time, John served as a volunteer firefighter. After his retirement, he worked several years for the U.S. Post Office.

In his spare time, Benji enjoyed golf and hunting, loved "lake life" and spent countless hours on Beaver Dam Lake, pulling his kids and their friends water skiing. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren; sharing the history of the Benjamin’s and story-telling his fond memories of “Mill Hill”. In addition to his patience, kind-hearted and gentle personality as a husband and father, Benji was the best-friend to many and the best anyone could ask for.

He is survived by his wife, Lana; daughter, Molly (Todd) Wekkin of Eau Claire; son, Michael Benjamin; two grandchildren: Brandon and Macey; sister, Peggy (David) Wallace of Eau Claire; nieces, nephews, and other family and friends. John was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Kay and Susan Lombard.

A gathering Celebrating John's Life will be 11 AM - 1 PM Saturday, May 24, 2025 at First Lutheran Church with Military honors immediately to follow.

Last Update: May 20, 2025 12:41 pm CDT