Tina Marie (Benham) Faidley

Tina Faidley, a beloved mother, daughter, sister, aunt, & friend, passed away on Friday, September 12, 2025, at the age of 63 at St. Mary’s Hospital with her daughter and family by her side during the last days of her life.

Tina grew up in Deer River, where she spent her early years riding horses, snowmobiles, and dirt bikes with her siblings, cousins, and neighbors. She lovingly cared for her pet pig, Speckles, and often held the bike at the starting gate for her brothers. A proud graduate of Deer River High School, Class of 1980, Tina cherished her time as a cheerleader for the Warriors, along with being the loudest trumpet player. Those spirited days on the sidelines helped shape the enthusiastic, loud-and-proud supporter she became, especially at her daughters’ sporting events, where there was never any doubt about who Danielle’s mom was.

A devoted Minnesota Vikings and Wild fan, Tina cheered just as fiercely for her teams as she did for her family. She found joy in life's simple pleasures: summer fishing trips, weekends camping at the family lake lot, and, above all, spending quality time with her closest friends and loved ones. These moments, filled with laughter and love, were what she cherished most.

Among those she held dearest was her husband, Dale. He was a steady presence and partner, whose memory remained a guiding light in her heart. When Dale came into her life, he brought love and laughter to Tina and her entire family. She often said that her years with Dale were the best of her life. After his passing, she often said no one could ever take Dale’s place in her heart, as he was her soulmate. Their favorite moments included fishing, cheering for the Vikings, sharing countless cups of coffee over wonderful conversations, and cherishing time on their small farm.

Ever the hard worker, she held many jobs over the years. However, working as a waitress had been one of her favorites simply because she genuinely loved connecting with people. Most recently, she worked as a rural mail carrier in Cohasset, where her warm, magnetic personality and kindhearted nature made her instantly recognizable and deeply appreciated along her route.

She is survived by her daughter Danielle (Cody, Blair, Molly Karels) Maki; stepson Matt (Teresa, Benjamin, Daniel) Faidley; father Rodney Benham; Siblings Ellyn (Dennis) Peterson, Dale (Addie) Benham, Dan Benham, Cari (Victor) Espino; Nieces, Leah (Kyle) Wilson, Bre (Lee) Church, Dusty (Brensley) Haywood, Leigh (Reese) Ayers, Lauren (Dan) Huju, Jamie (Travis Hemphill) Peterson, Kimberly (Levi) Jackson, Sheena (Justin) Prescott; Nephews, Daniel (Alexis Cole) Benham, Chad (Abby Ecker) Benham, Damon (Maria Herfindal) Benham, Kenneth (Cassidy) Benham, Clifton (Emily) Benham.

Tina was preceded in death by her husband, Dale Faidley; mother, Ethel Benham; sister, Dusty Benham; and niece, Alicia Benham.

Tina’s daughter would like to extend her deepest gratitude to the staff of St. Mary’s 18th Floor/Oncology Unit for the exceptional care and compassion they provided. During her time in the hospital, Tina formed heartfelt connections with a few of her nurses and doctors. These people she quickly grew fond of and spoke about with deep appreciation. She thoroughly enjoyed the laughter they shared, the light-hearted jokes, and their gracious acceptance of her spirited, sometimes spicy, personality. Their kindness, gentle care, and genuine warmth brought comfort not only to Tina but to those who loved her most. Their presence during such a difficult time will never be forgotten.

Visitation will be on Sunday, September 21st, 2025, from 4 pm to 6 pm at Carroll Funeral Home. Followed by a service on Monday, September 22nd, 2025, at 10 am at The Redeemer Lutheran Church - LCMS. There will be lunch following the service at the Church.

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