Kirk E. Benson

Mar 29, 1971 -

May 19, 2026

Kirk E. Benson, age 55, passed away on May 19, 2026, from cancer, surrounded by family and friends in Anchorage, Alaska.

Born and bred in Anchorage, he grew up interested in a variety of sports, most notably hockey, playing as a young "atom" to a defenseman for Dimond High School. Kirk's early years were spent being a supporter and teacher of his autistic brother, Brad. He was valued for his contribution to the autistic and disabled community. After graduating from UAA, with a year at Colorado State, he began teaching P.E. at Sand Lake Elementary and remained there for nearly 30 years, spreading his enthusiasm for sports, teamwork and healthy competition. His love for hockey extended into his adulthood as he was an assistant coach at Dimond High, along with coaching in the Alaska All Stars and Anchorage North Star Hockey Associations. He had many entertaining stories to tell about time on the ice with his fellow rowdy and loyal teammates, including stories of those he coached. He was a proud loving father to his daughter, Peyton, never once missing a soccer or volleyball game. Kirk had a steady quiet presence, with dry humor and wit, that all who knew him will miss.

Kirk was preceded in death by his father, George; and brother, Brad. He is survived by his daughter, Peyton; mother, Linda; two siblings, Nate (Kristie) and Tara (Bobby); and four nieces, Allison, Abigail, Serena and Lorelei.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 4-8 p.m., at Main Event Grill, 1041 E. 76th Avenue in Anchorage.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Anchorage Hockey Association, 801 E. 82nd Avenue, Suite B1, Anchorage, AK 99518.