Bob Benton, 52, died Friday, February 6, 2009 at his home in Ingalls. He was born on February 26, 1956 in Dodge City, the son of Don and Joan (Nolder) Benton.

Bob was raised in Ingalls and graduated from Ingalls High School in 1974. On April 26, 1980, he married Mary Klaus in Cimarron. Bob worked for Ingalls Feedyard for many years before going to work for Gerber Oil where he worked for the last seven years. Bob served the community in a multitude of ways. He served as mayor, was a member of the city council, school board, and recreation commission, served as recreation director, fire chief, high school football coach, and referee for football and basketball. Bob was an avid golfer and was very active with his grandchildren. He enjoyed camping and reading.

He was a member of St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Ingalls and served on the Parish Council. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus.

Bob is survived by his wife, Mary Benton of the home; one son, Chas Benton and wife Katie of Lawrence; three daughters, Miranda Benton-Kelley and husband Joe of Emporia, Theresa Benton of Ingalls, and Virginia Benton of the home; mother-Verna Joan Benton of Cimarron; two sisters, Donna Reed of Dallas, Texas and Jeannie Durler of Dodge City; one brother, Bradley Benton of Ingalls; three grandaughters; and one grandson. He was preceded in death by his father, Don.

Vigil service will be held at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church on Sunday, February 8, 2009 at 7:30 PM. Funeral Mass will be held at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church on Monday February 9, 2009 at 10:30 AM with Rev. Wesley Schawe presiding. Burial will follow at Cimarron Cemetery in Cimarron. Visitation will be at Swaim Funeral Chapel, Cimarron, on Sunday, February 8, 2009 from noon to 6:00 PM. Memorials can be made to St. Stanislaus Catholic Church in care of the funeral home. Personal Condolences may be left at www.swaimfuneralhome.com.