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Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401
Obituaries
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Benesh, Diane Joy
Diane Joy Benesh was born July 30, 1955, in Cedar Rapids, and died Nov. 5, 2010, of ovarian cancer, the silent killer.
She was the daughter of Charles V. and Geraldine M. (Bissel) Anderson. Diane graduated from Jefferson High School, Cedar Rapids, in 1973. She worked for the State of Iowa in the Department of Motor Vehicles and more recently in the Clerk of Courts office, where she retired after 37 years of service.
On Oct. 18, 2005, Diane married Dale Michael Benesh at Eden United Church of Christ in Cedar Rapids, where she had been a lifelong member. Diane and Dale founded the organization “Loud Pipes for the Silent Cancer” to spread awareness of ovarian cancer.
Her favorite pastime was riding on the back of Dale's Harley, traveling around the states. She was also a member of the Naked Riding Weasels motorcycle club. Diane collected Harley dip dots, pins, charms, and shirts. She also liked to collect buffalos and was a member of the Country Friends Dance Club.
Her only child was her 87-pound lap dog, Harley.
Diane's survivors include her husband, Dale Benesh of Cedar Rapids; four stepchildren, Gregory A. Benesh of Cedar Rapids, Sara Benesh of Ames, Molly Benesh and Rachel Benesh, both of Cedar Rapids; and a granddaughter, Bailey Reynolds of Cedar Rapids. Also surviving are her aunt and uncle, Edith and Martin Davis of Tyler, Texas; and cousins, Beth Ehlinger and Julia Anderson, both of Cedar Rapids.
Diane was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Jerry Anderson.
The family would like to express special thanks to Diane's own “Florence Nightingale,” her mother-in-law, Maribelle Benesh, and all the wonderful people at St. Luke's Hospice.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Diane's honor can be made to Loud Pipes for the Silent Cancer, c/o Community First Credit Union, 1030 Sierra Dr. NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402.
Services: noon Monday, Nov. 8, at Murdoch-Linwood Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Cedar Rapids, by Pastor Tedd Bryant, with a reception following at Eden United Church of Christ, 351 Eighth Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids. Friends may call from 1 to 5 p.m. today at the funeral home. Private burial in the Troy Mills Cemetery will be held at a later date.
Please sign the online guest book for Diane at under obituaries.
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