Among our neighbors on Illahe River Court is the Kliewer/Benson Family. They are excited to share a bit about their journey and the incredible community that they are proud to call home.

Mike Kliewer and Colleen Benson were married on a magical New Year's Eve in Maui and have since blended their families into one. With Colleen's two grown boys and Mike's two girls, Lucy (13) and Violet (11), their weekends are filled with adventures. They go from lazy days at Detroit Lake to cheering on the Oregon Ducks at all the home games and hitting the slopes for skiing and snowboarding.

As far as Illahe, "I toured the home when it was on the Tour of Homes in 2020- I fell in love with it then, but it was already sold! So when it hit the market two years later, I had to have it—I submitted an offer and got it! I love this house so much! " Colleen shares. I moved in right before I met Mike. We were able to make it ours together right away. It was love at first sight for both him and our house.

Colleen owns and manages The Benson Broker Group, a thriving real estate company that continues to keep them busy as it grows. Her team has had the privilege of helping over 1,000 families find their perfect homes in the Willamette Valley, Oregon Coast, Portland, and Bend.

Professionally, their real estate endeavors and running a large real estate team keep them busy, but "the dedication to family truly defines us," Colleen says. 

They cherish time together, whether boating, golfing or simply enjoying the company of their furry companion, Norma, a playful Havapoo (a cross between a Havanese and a Poodle). Her playful spirit adds an extra layer of joy to their outings!

Detroit Lake holds a special place in their hearts and is where they call their second home life in a 39-foot RV, a haven of tranquility in the mountains amidst the bustle of everyday life. They love recreational activities such as boating and side-by-siding, and are extremely active helping to rebuild the community there through involvement. Mike dresses as an elf and passes out presents to the kids at Christmas alongside Marion County Sheriffs and firefighters. Colleen and the Benson Broker Group sponsor events such as the Fishing Derby and the 4th of July parade.

Giving back to the community they call home here in Illahe is also a significant part of their lives. They volunteer with organizations like the Boys and Girls Club, Family Building Blocks and Marion County Sheriffs K-9 program, in addition to sponsoring local school events and participating in various philanthropic endeavors. "The sense of unity and camaraderie in our neighborhood is unparalleled, and we are grateful for the lifelong friends we've made here." We have a hilarious neighborhood group chat and look out for each other. It's what truly makes this neighborhood feel like home."