Edwin L. "Ted" Benson, Jr., 71, was unexpectedly called home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Thursday, November 15th, 2012. Family was by his side at the hospital. Ted was born March 16th, 1941 in Rochester, New York and was adopted at age three by Edith and Edwin L. Benson. A year later he became a big brother to nine month old Kent Benson who was also adopted. His family moved from LaGrange, IL to Leawood, KS where they resided for years. Ted loved his family dearly and is survived by his wife, Jody, of 48 years, a daughter and two sons; Susan Benson, Brett Benson, and Matt Benson who live in Springfield. His pride and joy were his grandchildren, Josh, Averie, Michael, Max and great-grandson, Owen. Also surviving is Edith Easterly, his mother-in-law. Ted graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business from Emporia State University. He worked for other businesses for several years before achieving his dream of owning his own business. He started his business and became an environmental consultant for municipals and electric utilities all over the country for over 28 years. Jody supported Ted in this endeavor and assisted in bookkeeping and scheduling areas. Ted was a member of South Haven Baptist Church and for several years enjoyed going on the church building trips. He loved the outdoors and some of his passions were camping, boating, fishing, and hunting. He was preceded in death by his parents and younger brother, Kent Benson. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, November 20th, 2012 at Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home Brentwood Chapel with Pastor Ryan Palmer officiating. Visitation will precede the service from 10 to 11 a.m. Private burial will take place at Rivermonte Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorial contributions be made to The Baptist Children's Home or The Baptist Home in Ozark.