Hester Benedict

Osakis, having just celebrated her 96 birthday April 4, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, April 9, 2020.

Hester King Stradtner was born in Vincennes, Indiana to John and Edna (Like) Stradtner. She was their only daughter. Hester graduated from Monroe City High School with the Class of 1941, after reading every book in the school library. Her first employment was doing clerical work for a local Vincennes business. While the rest of the country reeling from the challenges of WWII, Hester met the love of her life, Lawrence Benedict, when he was stationed at a nearby Air Base. They were united in holy matrimony on November 17, 1943. They moved to Arkansas for a time before heading north to Lamberton, MN where Lawrence worked as a plumber. In 1949, they moved to Glenwood, MN, but eventually settled in Osakis, MN and became very involved in their new community. Hester belonged to the Immaculate Conception Church and used her beautiful soprano voice in the church choir. She also belonged to the Christian Mothers and Daughters of Isabella women’s groups, as well as helping serve for funeral lunches. She relied on her strong faith in God when life sent her the heartache of losing a son. Bridge clubs were very happy to have her join and she and Lawrence also belonged to the Osakis Country Club. Hester’s primary job, however was raising their seven children. When nearing retirement, the Benedicts were able to travel more in their fifth-wheel camper. Hester loved it and they explored the U.S. from one coast to the other. They especially enjoyed wintering in Winterhaven, FL and made that an annual stop and second home during the cold winter months.

With a large family to feed, Hester made good use of her cooking talents. She loved to cook and made many homemade meals and baked for them and many others that were invited to the table. She was a sharp card player and enjoyed both Bridge and Cribbage. She liked handiwork, such as crochet, needlework and quilting. In the summer months she liked to get out golfing and socializing outdoors with family and friends and looked so forward to the summer family reunions. Hester also volunteered at the Community Memorial Home. Her love for family taught them the values needed to be confident, able caregivers to their own children. She loved her grandkids and was always ready to support them in all of their endeavors. Her big smile and happy disposition will be a lasting legacy. May she rest in the peace knowing she will live on in the hearts of those she left behind.

She is survived by her children, James (Pam) Benedict of Calloway, MN, Paul (Cindy) Benedict of San Antonio, TX, Harold (Alexandra) Benedict of San Marcos, CA, Mary (Nathan) Wright of Phoenix, AZ, Joel (Kelly) Benedict of Wasilla, AK, Ann (Greg) Sadlemyer of Osakis; 15 grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren; 2 great great grandchildren; nieces and nephews. Welcoming her home are her parents, her husband, Lawrence (2006), a son, Phillip and a her brother, John Stradtner.

A Celebration of Hester’s Life will be held at a later date. In the meantime, please leave memories and condolences on her Tribute Wall under her obituary at the Roy-Hetland Funeral Home website: www.royhetland.com