Obituary of Geraldine B. Benassi

Geraldine B. Benassi, 85, lifelong resident of Duluth, Minn. passed away Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2016 while at Miller-Dwan Essentia Health, with family at her side. She was born Aug. 4, 1931 in Duluth to Frederick and Ethel Pepel. Geraldine was an admired artist, educator, gardener, certified flower judge, fisherman, hunter and baker. There isn't anything she couldn't do. She shared her knowledge and passion as a Master Gardener for more than 35 years and taught community classes ranging from Chinese cooking to flower arranging, crafts and gardening. Among many local associations, she was a contributing member of the Red Hat Society and her recipes were published in its national cookbook. Geraldine was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, James Pepel; and a sister, Diana Edberg. She is survived by her loving husband of 63 years, Don; son Curt (Toni) Benassi of Proctor, Minn.; grandson Shane; two sisters, Winnie (Dick) Anderson of Esko, Minn. and Bonnie (Erik) Vermulen of Dillon, Colo.; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. GATHERING OF FAMILY AND FRIENDS: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Friday, Nov. 25 at Cremation Society of Minnesota, 4100 Grand Ave., Duluth. (218) 624-5200.