Ilo Benson, 94, former resident of Sterling, departed this life suddenly on Feb. 1, 2012, at University Hospital, Aurora, to be with her Lord and savior. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 6, at Chaney-Reager Funeral Home. Interment will be at Riverside Cemetery.

Ilo was born July 11, 1917, in Burdett to William Roys and Margaret Cousins Roys.

She married Albin C. Benson on July 21, 1934, in Denver. They farmed and ranched in the Kelly area southeast of Sterling before retirement. She enjoyed traveling; visiting family; needlepoint; playing cards, especially bridge; and living in Brownsville, Texas, during her retirement.

Ilo is survived by three children, Shirley and Gerald Briggs of Colorado Springs, Cliff and Naioma Benson of Brownsville, and Curt and Dottie Benson of Sterling. She enjoyed spending time with and loved her grandchildren, Cindy and Mike McCormick, Allen and Cindy Benson, Ben and Michelle Benson, LJ and Paula Benson, Tom Benson; 10 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by husband, Albin Benson; and grandson, Wayne Briggs.

Everyone who met Ilo was inspired by her spirit, willingness to try just about anything, long life, wit and loving nature. She will be greatly missed by all.