James David Benham was born May 1, 1949, in Benson, Minnesota, the son of Wesley Raymond and Bernice Mary (Fennell) Benham. He was baptized and confirmed in Benson. He grew up on a farm near Danvers and attended country school. He graduated from Benson High School and went on to attend Alexandria Technical School. On June 14, 1969, James was united in marriage to Yvonne Wicklund at St. Francis Catholic Church in Benson by Fr. Gorman. They were divorced in 1977. James worked as an over-the-road truck driver based out of Alexandria, and most recently he drove for Wheelchair Express out of Sioux Falls, SD. He enjoyed woodworking. James died at his residence in Sioux Falls on June 25, 2009 following a short illness. He attained the age of 60 years, 1 month and 24 days. James is survived by his children: Angela (Dean) Krebs of Alexandria, Michael (Alison) Benham of Alexandria, and Samantha (Brian) Helmin of Foley; seven grandchildren: Lauren Krebs, Hunter Krebs, Wyatt Krebs, Taylor Benham, Emily Benham, Amaya Helmin, and Brenya Helmin; his mother, Bernice Benham of Benson; siblings: Bonnie (Ray) Smith of Benson, Tom (LouAnn) Benham of Brooklyn Park, and Marilyn (Tom) Lee of Benson; and other relatives and friends. Preceding him in death was his father Wesley in 1996.