Harvey Benko

Harvey Robert Benko, 75 of Cloquet, died on Saturday, August 22, 2020 due to heart complications. He was born on March 7, 1945 to Lewis and Rose Marie (Crotteau) Benko in Cloquet. Harvey married Marinelda Ruiz Velez on August 3, 1968 in Puerto Rico. The Benko family suffered a tremendous loss. Harvey Benko truly was one of a kind. He was generous, kindhearted, passionate, opinionated, funny, joyful, and very much LOVED his family. Harvey loved to talk to anyone, stranger or friend; he really was what you would call a people person. He left an impact on everyone he encountered, even if they only encountered him once. Harvey served in the Air Force as a Jet Engine Mechanic specializing in B-52s. He also ran a coffee shop with his beloved partner, Mikey, who he met when he was stationed in Puerto Rico. Unfortunately, Harvey was plagued with chronic back, hip and knee pain from his years of hard work and dedicated service; there is some solace in that he will suffer no longer. We all know that death is inevitable for all of us, but it does not make it any easier when our loved ones leave this earth.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his in-laws, Primo and Maria Ruiz and sister in-law, Kathy Benko. Survivors include his wife of 52 years, Marinelda “Mikey”; sons, Rick (Lisa) and Kristopher (Danielle) Benko; brother, Jim Benko; sisters, Doreen (Tamara) Ritt and Mary Benko; grandchildren, Jade and Jystine Benko and nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, August 27, 2020 in Nelson Funeral Care. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 28, 2020 in Nelson Funeral Care with a visitation one hour prior to the service. Military honors accorded by the Cloquet Combined Honor Guard.