Jon Benusa 02/20/2026

Jon Benusa passed away peacefully on Friday, February 20, 2026 at his home with his wife by his side, after a courageous four-and-a-half-year battle with cancer, which Jon faced with strength and grace.

Born Jon Michael Benusa on February 14, 1965 in Arcadia Wisconsin to John “Jack” and LaVon (Fernholz) Benusa. Jon developed his love of being outdoors at an early age. He was often found fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, and spending time on his grandparents’ farm. While in high school he played football, baseball, was in marching band and had the lead as Byrdie in Bye Bye Birdie. Jon cherished the early years, always finding joy in the simple moments. Jon got to work alongside his dad at the family’s John Deere Implement shop learning hard work, dedication, and the value of relationships. After high school Jon attended UW- Stout where he met his wife, Natalie. Before settling down, they moved from Indianapolis to Minneapolis. In between moving, transferring jobs, and starting a family, Jon earned his master’s degree in Manufacturing Systems from St. Thomas University. Jon dedicated 25 years working at Inteck Plastics in Hastings, MN before retiring in 2022.

For the past 26 years he and Natalie have called River Falls home. Jon looked forward to planning family vacations, carving out family time together in between Jack’s hockey games, Emma’s soccer matches, and other activities they participated in.

According to his daughter there was nothing Jon could not build or fix. Jon loved working in his garage, planning and researching, and working on his next project! (and there were many)

Jon is preceded in death by his dad, John “Jack” Benusa and his sister-in-law, Darla Benusa. He is survived by his mother, LaVon Benusa, his wife Natalie Benusa and children; Jack (Fiancé, Kaylie Brand ) and Emma (Alec) Skar, his brother Jay Benusa and nephew Jayson Benusa. Along with many family members and friends.

In lieu of flowers the family kindly requests that donations be made in Jon’s name to the Miles for Melanoma, Melanoma Research Fund.

A celebration of Jon’s life will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at 11:00 am at Journey Church of River Falls (605 Valley View Dr.) with visitation beginning at 9:00 am until the time of the service. A reception will follow the service in the church basement.  Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.