John Andrew Benson

John was born on June 26, 1926 in New Jersey to John Alcott and Julia Neuschafer Benson. John was a proud veteran of World War II, having enlisted in the United States Navy in 1944 at the age of 18. He served aboard PT Boat #180 patrolling the South Pacific. After his time in the Navy, John graduated from the University of Miami in Florida. He settled in upstate New York and married his wife Stella Aiello in 1950. After six years of practicing public accounting, John become owner and CEO of Hale Mfg. Company in Herkimer, New York from which he retired in 1993 when his sons took over the business. After retiring, John and Stella became residents of Sarasota, Florida and later Greenville, South Carolina. While living in New York, John was active in his community. He served on the Board of Education, on the Town Council, Rotary Club, Volunteer Fire Department, and he was a founder and treasurer for the Herkimer County ARC. He was a member of the Mohawk Valley Country Club, St. Francis de Sales Church, and the TPC Prestancia Golf Club in Sarasota.

John’s surviving children include two sons, Jon Benson (Rebecca) of West Newbury, Massachusetts and James Benson (Heidi) of Ilion, New York; and two daughters, Janis Gillespie (James) of Fredericksburg, Virginia and Jill Benson of Greenville, South Carolina. Another son, Jay Michael Benson, died in 1973. Also left to cherish his memory is his wife of 67 years, Stella; thirteen grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; several nieces and a nephew; other extended family; and many friends. Predeceasing John were his sisters Betty Carbone (Rocco) and Bonnie Abel (Jack).

A memorial service and burial will be held at a later date in Herkimer, New York. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Interim HealthCare Hospice, 16 Hyland Rd, Greenville, South Carolina 29615.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at MackeyMortuary.com.