Retired Master Sargent, Eugene J. “Gene” Benson, USAF retired, 93, of North Attleborough, and a former longtime resident of Franklin, passed away peacefully, Monday, February 6, 2023, at the Lydia Taft House in Uxbridge, following many months of declining health. He was the beloved husband of the late Mary B. (Welch) Benson who died in 1983 and the late Dorothy J. (Hutto) Benson who died in 2022.
Born on March 24, 1929, to parents Ole and Ellen (Haggerty) Benson of Minnesota, Eugene grew up working the family farm until enlisting in the United States Air Force which served as his career. He served during the Korean Conflict and the Vietnam War and retired in 1972 with an honorable discharge. He was a past post commander of the VFW in Wrentham and a member of the American Legion.
After retiring from the service, he worked for Pacella Pipe Corp. and Debbie’s Steak House. He enjoyed his woodworking and took great pride in his yard work and vegetable gardens. He loved to listen to his Irish music and was always there to lend a helping hand.
Gene loved his family immensely. He is survived by his children Timothy F. Benson of Bellingham, Cheryl (Benson) Evans and husband Richard of Plymouth and John J. Benson and wife Danielle of Milford. He is also survived by sister-in-law Alice Benson of Minnesota and many nieces and nephews.
He was the proud grandfather of Lisa and Tim Johnson, Miles Benson, Lauren and Alex Narlee, Kara and Jonathan Farias and Benjamin and Rachel Evans along with greatgrandchildren, Hugo Jackson Farias, Cleo Alice Evans and Zara Rose Farias.
Gene is also survived by extended family members, Janice and Phil Bardon, Gail and Jeff Blanchard, Teresa Gallant, Anthony Sacco and many grandchildren.
He was predeceased by siblings Eileen Benson, John “Hartley” Benson and Beverly (Benson) Kill.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral Monday February 13th, at 9AM from the Charles F. Oteri and Son Franklin Funeral home 33 Cottage St. followed by a funeral Mass in St. Mary's Church, 1 Church Square Franklin at 10AM.
Interment with military honors will follow at the parish cemetery.
Calling hours are Sunday Feb. 12th, from 2-4PM.
His loving heart will leave a beacon of light for all, thanks to the Lydia Taft Home and the Oteri Funeral Home for their compassion and caring.
Guestbook www.oterifuneralhome.com