Lloyd Miles Benz, aged 91, passed away peacefully on August 24, 2021, in the presence of his beloved wife, Virginia, and family. A Mass of Christian burial to celebrate Lloyd’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, August 30, at the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, 519 Raymond St, Bismarck, officiated by Rev. Joshua Ehli. Following the service, a private burial, due to space constraints, will take place at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, south of Mandan, at 2 p.m. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during the visitation on Sunday, August 29, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit in Bismarck, with a rosary and vigil service to follow at 7 p.m.
Born on April 5, 1930, on the Benz Ranch near Moffit, ND, Lloyd was the son of Miles and Beatrice (Hardland) Benz. His early years were spent on the ranch alongside his sisters, before the family relocated to Abercrombie and later Christine, ND, where he completed his high school education.
After graduating, Lloyd’s path led him to his uncle Clarence Schmitz’s farm south of Menoken, ND, where he worked as a ranch hand. Those acquainted with Lloyd and his cousin, Larry Schmitz (affectionately known as “Schmitty”), can only imagine the memorable times they shared during this period. It was during this chapter of his life that Lloyd met Virginia Heaton, the youngest of four sisters and a brother, from the Heaton farm south of McKenzie, ND. Their connection blossomed, culminating in marriage on August 18, 1951, at St. Hildegard’s Catholic Church in Menoken, ND. Lloyd’s love for Virginia was profound and unwavering; he cherished her as the most beautiful woman in his eyes throughout their life together.
In 1951, amidst the Korean War, Lloyd answered the call of duty and enlisted in the U.S. Army. His journey took him from Seattle, WA, aboard the USS Randall troop transport, across the Pacific for 13 days to Japan. There, he served with distinction in radio and communications until his honorable discharge in 1953.
Lloyd embraced life with enthusiasm and a spirit of independence. A quote he carried close, encapsulating his philosophy, read: “Life’s journey is not to arrive at the grave safely in an attractive, well-preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, shouting, “Holy sh__ – what a ride!” This zest for life defined his actions and choices.
For four decades, Lloyd and Virginia built their life together farming and ranching south of Steele. Lloyd’s skill with horses was well-known; in his younger years, he was a familiar figure in rodeos across Hazelton, Steele, Wing, and neighboring towns, often riding bareback. His children fondly recall watching him compete in wild horse races, taking on roles as either the ear-man or the daring rider. In December of recent years, Lloyd and Virginia transitioned from their ranch to Bismarck, ND, seeking closer proximity to essential services.
Lloyd is lovingly remembered by Virginia, his wife of 70 years, and their seven children and their spouses: Monte (Sheryl), Steele, ND; Lisa (Gerald), Bismarck, ND; Larry (Diane), Frederick, CO; Naomi (Jeff), Bismarck, ND; Marianne (Lynn), LaMoure, ND; Laura (Corey), Mandan, ND; and Miles (Kristi), Steele, ND. His legacy continues through 19 grandchildren and 34 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters: Marian Forness, Vivian Boelke, Leone Kressin, and Carol Waswick. Lloyd took immense pride in his expansive family, often expressing his gratitude for such a blessing.
Reflecting on his milestone 70th wedding anniversary with “Ma” on August 18, Lloyd had voiced his determination to reach that day, a promise he wholeheartedly fulfilled. His life, shared deeply with Virginia Benz, leaves behind a tapestry of love, family, and cherished memories.
