Irene Marie Benson, age 74, passed away at her home in Portage on January 18, 2016
Irene was born on April 29, 1941, to the late George and Ruth Benson in New York. Irene was a schoolteacher, a graduate of Cedarville University and Central State University. She taught one year in the Gary Public schools before she began her training as a foreign missionary. Irene marked 50 years on the mission field for Crossworlds International in 2015, serving over 42 years in Brazil. Irene taught the Wai Wai Indians, who considered her one of their own. She established a school in their village and played an integral part in the translation of The Bible in its entirety in the Wai Wai's native tongue.
Irene's life was one of service, to her Lord Jesus and others. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends around the world.
Irene is survived by her brothers; Victor of Portage, Thom (Cindy) of Unionville, sisters; Jean of Portage and Roberta (Tim) Redd of Ohio and many other loving family members and friends
Irene was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Richard.
A Memorial Service will be held for Irene at the Inland Manor Baptist Church, 630 N. County Line Road, Hobart, IN 46342, will be held on Friday, January 22, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Ryon Adcock officiating. Another Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, January 31, 2016 at 6:00 pm at Portage Community Bible Church, 2748 Willowdale Road, Portage, IN 46368, where Irene was a member. Irene was cremated as she wished and her remains will be interred at Ridgelawn Cemetery in Gary, IN. Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Ave, Portage, IN is handling arrangements.