Kenneth Wayne Benson, age 77, of Soquel, California, passed away on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at Stanford Hospital in Palo Alto, California, after a hard-fought battle with a brain tumor. He was surrounded by the family he loved and who loved him.

Kenneth was born in Watsonville, California, on October 1, 1948, to Bo and Betty Benson. He was known for being kind, funny, and always ready with a joke. He never met a stranger, instead seeing everyone as a potential friend.

Kenneth worked as a heavy equipment operator for over 40 years and truly loved his work. He was a member of Operating Engineers Local 3 since 1967. He was well respected for his skill operating a motor grader and for his willingness to work on treacherous terrain in areas such as Big Sur. In his free time, he enjoyed shooting skeet, working out, walking on the beach, and—most of all—spending time with his grandchildren. They were the light of his life.

Kenneth came to know and love Christ in his late forties. He often said he “couldn’t walk into a church or the roof might cave in,” but the loving example of his wife, Joanne, along with the kindness and support of the staff and members of Green Valley Christian Church, began to change his heart. His relationship with Jesus transformed him completely and became the focus of his life. He continued his faith journey at Corralitos Assembly of God, where he treasured his church community.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his beloved wife and lifelong love, Joanne Louise Benson; his parents, Bo and Betty Benson; and his brother, Bobby Benson.

He is survived by his daughters, Laurie Hunkel (Peter) of La Selva Beach and Jennifer Nocis (Tony) of Santa Maria; his brother, George Benson of Scotts Valley; and his sisters, JoAnn Allen of Rancho Cordova and Debbie Brown of Avondale, Arizona. He also leaves behind five grandchildren—Samuel, Nina, Jessup, Zachary, and Eric—who brought him immense joy. In addition, he is survived by his sweetheart, Karen Anderson, who meant so much to him in the later years of his life.

A private burial will be held for immediate family.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Stanford Hospital.