Obituary of Ernest P. Benson

Ernest Peter Benson, age 84, died peacefully on November 10, 2021.

Born on May 22, 1937, in Sharon, CT, he spent his early years on dairy farms in Schoharie County, NY and graduated from Jefferson High School, NY and Pasadena High School, CA. His curiosity and spirit of adventure led him to hitch hike across the United States 6 times. He settled in Southern California, where he married, raised his family, and worked as a professional driver.

In retirement, he returned home to Schoharie County. He enjoyed his church community and was a keen observer of all manner of wildlife around him. He will be remembered fondly for feeding crows and ducks and reporting on the activities of his local deer, muskrat, and raccoons, just to name a few.

He is survived by his partner: Elsa VanVliet; sister: Sylvia Schrumpf; brother: Jan Benson; children: Pam Saca (Ken), Christy Benson McCoy, John Benson (Emily), Danny Benson (Holly) and Aram Ebben (Sandi); 11 grandchildren; and 3 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents Ebenezer and Ruby Benson; brothers: David Benson and Don Benson and wives Jeanene Gardner Benson and Liz Ebben Benson.

Memorial donations in Ernie’s name can be made to the hospice services at Helios Care, 297 River St, Service Road, Oneonta, NY 13820 or to Summit United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 9, Summit, NY 12175.

Burial was at West Jefferson Cemetery, Jefferson, NY

Please visit www.macarthurfh.com to share a condolence with the Benson family.