Anthony Tony Benson

Dr. Anthony Lane Benson (Tony) passed away on March 23 in Taos, New Mexico. He was preceded in death by his parents Edward and Charlotte Benson and his sister Sarah. He is survived by his loving children Barb Benson Grinnell, Ted Benson, and Kitty Benson Cadena (Val III). He is also survived by his grandchildren Grayson Grinnell, Nick and Brooke Benson, and Val IV and Steele Cadena. Tony also leaves behind to cherish his memories his partner Martha Brown. Tony was raised in Bath, Ohio graduating from Reserve High School. He went on to the Ohio State University on academic scholarships, earning a B.S. and PhD in geology while being a member of the OSU marching band playing the baritone horn.

Tony began his career as a staff geologist in the Oklahoma City field office. He held various positions within the company in offices located in Ft. Worth, Tulsa, Calgary, New Orleans, Chicago and Houston. As Amoco's Regional Exploration Manager, he oversaw the first ever area wide Outer Continental Shelf lease sale in 1983. Later in his career Tony was appointed as Vice President of World Wide Exploration where one of his successes was negotiating Amoco's entry into Russia. After retirement, Tony continued his interest in geology as a member of the New Mexico Geologic Society, leading countless field trips in and around New Mexico and publishing research.

Tony moved to Taos in 1994 where he spent the last 30 years on range restoration efforts as owner and operator of Wolf Springs Ranch. He was an active member of the Taos community; he served as an Adjunct Professor at the University of New Mexico-Taos, a member of the Board of Supervisors of the Taos Soil and Conservation District, a Board member of the Taos Land Trust, New Mexico Society for Range Management, New Mexico Society of Conservation Districts, BLM Resource Advisory Council, New Mexico Geological Society Foundation, and the New Mexico Land Conservancy.

A celebration of life honoring Tony will take place On Saturday May 24th. For additional information please contact Kitty Cadena at katrina.cadena@gmail.com.

The family of Dr. Anthony Lane Benson (Tony) has entrusted the care of their loved one to the caring staff of DeVargas Funeral Home of Taos. 866-657-4019 www.devargastaos.com