Calvin Richard Bentsen

Calvin Richard Bentsen, prominent local civic leader and businessman completed his last safari of life at the age of 98. His legacy of enthusiasm, vitality, and humor enlightened generations of family, friends, and acquaintances from all walks of life. Born in the quiet Rio Grande Valley during the depression, Calvin was the second child of Marie J. and Elmer C. Bentsen, the elder being Ted and the younger, Rose Marie. He graduated from McAllen High School and proceeded to the University of Texas where he was a member of Sigma NU fraternity. Being of strong Danish descent, patriotism for the United Sates was an essential value in family life, so he volunteered for the US Air Force during World War II. At the suggestion of his, father, he met Marge Harris, a Hockaday friend of Rose Marie’s, and they married in Center, TX in 1949. The couple returned to McAllen, where he opened Tex-Air conditioning Company. As a businessman, he became involved in real estate, banking, oil and gas, and ranching, and his dedication to civic causes generated his participation through countless ways. Calvin was a lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church and served on the board of the Gladys Portor Zoo in Brownsville for many years. In 1987, he was honored by the San Antonio Museum Assn. for generous service, extraordinary dedication, and outstanding contributions to the communities of the people of Texas. As occupied as he was with business and three young daughters at home, his concern for health and education led him to be a member and president of the McAllen Independent School board and the McAllen General Hospital board, to name a few. Growing up in the valley, Calvin developed a love and passion for the outdoors, especially the natural habitat. An appreciation of flora and fauna was instilled in him at a young age, and this legacy of massive oak trees can be observed today at Chula Vista and South Cynthia. Father-son dove hunts with his father and brother Ted were a favorite pastime, which he continued with his daughters and grandchildren. The correlation between conservation and hunting and how to balance the two in the interest of preservation was important to him. His love of Africa began in 1960, and later included his wife, daughters, and grandchildren on many visits, exposing them to the vast world he felt so privileged to behold. These experiences resulted in his membership to Club Limited, Shikar Safari Club International, Game Coin and the NRA in which he was quite active. Even though Calvin’s departure leaves a void in our hearts, we have been blessed with his many years of love and dedication and will forever treasure the memories we share. Calvin was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Ted A. Bentsen, and his sister Rose Marie Benton. He is survived by his wife Marge, celebrating 75 years of marriage, and his three daughters, Pam Havens (Timothy M.), Margo Falb, and Susan Corrigan (Leo F. III). His beloved grandchildren, include Brooke Biddle, Susan Biddle, Bentsen Falb, MiMi Falb, Leo Corrigan IV (Sarah Claire), and DeWitt Corrigan, Sr. (Alison), as well as 6 great grandchildren. The family would like to express their deep appreciation to the most recent caregivers: Luis Garcia, Tristan Lopez, Juan Escobedo, Joey Garcia, Luis Garza, and Manny Garza. A very special thanks also to Patty Torres and Lupita Cabral for their loving care through Amara Hospice. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, May 24, 2024, at the First United Methodist Church in McAllen. In lieu of flowers a contribution to Calvin Bentsen’s memory may be made to the charity of your choice.

Tributes

Calvin Richard Bentsen

May 17, 2024