Jeffrey Thomas Benson

Jeffrey was a cherished husband, father, son, brother, grandson, uncle, nephew, cousin, friend, and colleague. His loss is felt tremendously amongst his loved ones.

On July 18, 2026, Jeff perished in a fatal motorcycle accident. Jeff is survived by his wife, Keshia Benson, and his two children Saleena (6) and Kailen (3), who were the light of his life and the centre of his world. Jeff was the most beloved and cherished son of Mary Benson and Tom Benson; the adored brother of Jessica Benson (Lucas Vanderaar) and Krista Benson; and the loving uncle to Weston Vanderaar.

He was the son-in-law of Sue and Tej Mangat, and brother-in-law to Robert Mangat (Naseeb).

Jeff was adored by his Nonna, Rosa Vadala, and predeceased by his Nonno, Bruno Vadala (May 25, 1999), as well as his Grandparents, Agnes Benson (October 12, 1994) and Elnor Benson (November 10, 1994).

He will also be dearly missed by his aunts and uncles; Mimma and Paul Moore, Joe and Linda Vadala, Frank and Jude Vadala, Tony and Christine Vadala, Michael and Kathryn Vadala, and Francie and Les Schmidt.

Jeff leaves behind his crew of cousins, whose lives were forever touched by his kindness, laughter and love. ‘Don’t worry Jeff, we’ve got this run for you.’

Jeff was the kind of person who could light up any room with his sense of humour, a jokester who loved to make people laugh. He was also one of the kindest, strongest, hardworking people you could ever know. He possessed a heart of gold and was always there for those he loved.

Born and raised in Guelph, ON, Jeff graduated from St. James Catholic High School before earning his degree from Brock University. He then went on to become a proud Officer in the Canadian Armed Forces. Jeff carried his duty with immense pride, discipline, and camaraderie. Beyond his military service, Jeff lived a life with endless energy. He had a passion for sports, motorcycles, cars and fitness.

Through his “Jeff Runs Around the World” initiative, he combined his love for running with a deep desire to give back, logging countless kilometres to raise funds and awareness for cancer research. Those who knew him know how much joy these interests brought him, and how enthusiastically he shared them with others.

Our hearts are shattered, and the pain of losing him is beyond words. While our lives will never be the same, we will forever cherish the memories, laughter, love and strength he gave us. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and through the family who loved him so deeply. Although he is no longer with us, his memory will forever live in our hearts.

Our family is incredibly grateful for the love, prayers, and support we have received during this difficult time.

Arrangements are entrusted to Gilbert MacIntyre & Son Hart Chapel, 1099 Gordon Street, Guelph.

Visitation to be held on Thursday July 30, 2026 from 16:00 - 20:00 and Funeral service to be held on Friday July 31, at 11:00 at Gilbert MacIntyre and Son, Hart Chapel.

A livestream link will be available on the Gilbert MacIntyre & Son website.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to : “Jeff Runs Around the World” to help him achieve his goal of raising funds for cancer and research.

https://fundraisemyway.cancer.ca/campaign/Jeff-Runs-Around-the-World