Michele Benda

Michele Benda, Fergus Falls, MN passed away at the age of 63. There are no simple words that can express how amazing Michele was, but we will try.

Michele was born in Oregon, on January 16, 1963, to Margaret Benda. Michele later gave birth to her son Dustin, of whom she was very proud.

In January 1994, Michele met the love of her life, Patrick Putz. Together they shared laughter, adventure and music. Michele and Pat loved dressing up together, whether it was Halloween costumes or bright green St. Patrick's Day outfits. They also shared countless Sunday's cheering on the Viking's.

Michele was a devoted life partner, a loving mother, and a joy-filled grandmother. Her family was her heart, and she enjoyed spending every moment she could with them. Michele spent her professional life helping others to overcome challenges, offering encouragement, guidance and an unwavering belief in their potential. Michele lifted up those around her by simply being who she was.

Michele's compassion extended to every living creature. Michele befriended the cats of the world as if it were calling. She once commandeered a parking lot to make sure a group of ducklings passed safely. If humans or animals were suffering, Michele's invisible bat signal was alerted, and she was already on her way to help.

Michele also enjoyed the fun-loving things in life. Halloween was her favorite holiday and she was never without a costume. She loved traveling to haunted hotels, which is an adventure she shared with Skyla & Fiona. While growing up, Skyla would spend time with Michele swimming, catching monarch butterflies and getting books at Victor Lundeens. Michele took Skyla on an unforgettable trip, meeting cast of Ghost Adventures. Skyla's graduation ceremony led Michele to State Street, where she showed Skyla and Dustin her ability to party and eat cupcakes was unmatched. Fiona and Michele enjoyed baking Michele's famous "monster" cookies, going to craft shows and shopping. Michele loved rocking out to her favorite hard rock bands, and she especially enjoyed attending musical festivals like Moondance Jam. When it came to mosh pits, Michele had no fear.

Unfortunately, Michele's life cannot be captured in an obituary, as she is simply indescribable. Michele was taken far too soon from all of us that loved her. Heaven must have needed her assistance, because the world rarely receives someone as awesome as her.

Michele was preceded in death by her mother, Margeret; her bother, Matt; and her beloved aunts, Ruthie, Beatrice and Connie.

Michelle is survived by her partner, Patrick Putz; her son, Dustin (Paige) Benda; her granddaughters, Skyla Mjelde and Fiona Benda; her sister, Mary (James) Johnson; her nephews, Lenny (Dana), Beau, Teddy and Nick; her niece, Linnea.

Assistance provided by Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls.

Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com