Frank Benson III 82, of Independence, Missouri, passed away on March 18, 2014 in Independence, Missouri. Frank was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Frank and Gertrude Benson on May 21, 1931. He lived in Philadelphia until 1950. He then attended Graceland College in Lamoni, Iowa for one year where he met his wonderful wife to be, Levita Smith. Frank served in the Army for several years as a Corporal during the Korean War. After his service ended, he and Levita made Independence, Missouri their home. He had many sales jobs early in his career but was most successful in his personal business ventures and as a real estate broker and salesperson for Remax Hidden Creek in Independence. Frank liked sports but enjoyed his golf more than any other. His hobby was hawking golf balls along the fairway of any golf course he played. He also played softball with his sons well into his sixties. Frank was always doing his part to make his community the best it could be. He was a pastor for over 20 years in the RLDS church and most recently attended the First Baptist Church of Raytown with family. Listed are several of the many activities Frank was a part of. The AUB Social Club at Graceland College, McCune Home for Boys, Good Government League, Project 70001, Kiwanis, Neighborhood Councils, Knife and Fork, Chaplin of the Sugar Creek Police Department, Mayor's Prayer Breakfast and most recently served on the Parks and Recreation Committee for the City of Independence. Frank was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Gail Benson Wood. Frank is survived by his wife Levita of 62 years and his sister Shirley Benson Ford and her husband Edward Ford of Michigan and his three sons Tom, Scott and his wife Rita and Bruce. Frank also had 12 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.

Visitation will be at the Speaks Suburban Chapel in Independence, Missouri on Saturday March 22, 2014 from 6:00pm through 9:00 pm. A Memorial Service and Life Celebration will be at the Village Heights Community of Christ Church at 1009 Farview Drive, Independence MO 64056 on Saturday, April 5, 2014 starting at 3:00 pm with a life celebration reception to follow. Online condolences may be expressed at www.speakschapel.com Arrangements: Speaks Suburban Chapel 816-373-3600.