Stan Benson
Wrestling (1960-63)

Stan Benson had a passion for wrestling and excelled under the tutelage of his coach and mentor, “Doc” Petersen. Stan was a conference finalist for four years, a two-time conference champion, a inalist at the NCAA Small College Regional Championship and team captain for three years.

After completing his degree in physical science, Stan was commissioned a 2nd Lt. in the Marines, and flew as a combat fighter pilot in Vietnam. While on active duty, he complete a M.S. in Aerospace Management from the University of Southern California. After his release from active duty, Stan joined the Marine Corps reserves, and retired as a colonel after serving his country for 30 years.

During this time, Stan flew and instructed for Pacific Southwest Airlines and US Airways. He retired from US Airways as a captain in 1999, and currently runs a nutrition marketing company with his wife, Kathy.

The most important part of Stan’s life has been his three wonderful children. Mark, Christina (who is also an alum of Chico State) and Matthew. All three have done well in their chose professions. Mark, who is with an advertising firm in Sacramento, is married with two children. Christina, who runs the fund-raising program for Sharp’s Memorial Hospital in San Diego, is married and together they run a trade show production company. Finally, Matthew is a pilot for Sky West Airlines and is married with three children.

The adage that “I don’t know how I found the time to go to work” fits Stan’s retirement to a “T”. Stan and Kathy enjoy flying their classic Cessna aircraft, fly-fishing, golf, traveling and visits with five wonderful grandchildren.