Arlys Benshoof Obituary

Arlys D. Benshoof, 94, passed away on November 7, 2025. Visitation will be held from 10-11am, Friday, November 14, 2025 at Iles Grandview Park Chapel, followed by the funeral service at 11am at the chapel. Interment will be at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery, Des Moines, IA.

She danced into life on February 11, 1931. Born to Juanita and James Madden. Arlys Darlene Madden was as wonderful as they come.

She was a great role model being the older sister to sisters, Ramona, Dorothy, Martha and brother, Jamie. As kids, they often celebrated the holidays with family in Missouri.

Following her mother’s footsteps at the shoe factory, Arlys went to work to her first job. She then moved into the glove factory and finally, her favorite job as a school lunch lady where she met her best friends, Wilma and Iona.

In 1949, she met the love of her life Jack Benshoof and the love birds were married just two weeks after dating. Together they had four children Lois, Jack, Jan and Gary.

They now have six grandchildren, fourteen great grand children and one great great grandchild.

Jack and Arlys built their lives around enjoying their family, favorite places and fun. With seasonal homes in Texas and the Ozarks, there was never a dull moment.

Jack passed away in 2003 after 54 years of marriage. This year would have been anniversary number 76!

During her 94 years of life, Arlys enjoyed dancing, attending Church, coffee dates, listening to Mitch Miller and making all of her family afghan blankets. She was also one of Tasty Taco’s biggest fans.

She made sure to always look her best with her hair done, lipstick on and nails polished.

Today as we are celebrating her life and cherishing the memories we have of her, she gets to finally reunite with her loving husband and her beautiful daughter Jan.

Arlys was preceded in death by her husband, Jack; daughter, Jan; sister, Ramona and brother, Jamie. She is survived by her children, Jack (Inga), Lois (Larry), Gary (Diane); sisters, Dorothy and Martha; six grandchildren; fourteen great grandchildren and one great great grandchild.

Rest in peace to our beloved mom, grandma and great grandma. We love you.

Online condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com.

Arrangements by Iles Grandview Park Chapel.

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