Roberta M Benson

Roberta Margaret Benson, known to all as “Bobbie”, passed away peacefully at her home Wednesday October 12, 2011, attended by her husband, her niece Mari Mezzatesta and son and daughter-in-law Al and Susan Allen, with the help of Hospice of America. She was born, May 28, 1918, on a farm in Hastings, NE, the daughter of the late Laurence P. and Martha Elva Clark. In her early years, Bobbie was a spunky tom-boy who loved animals, including the dogs, ducks, and ponies on the farm. She was an art student at the University of Nebraska. Bobbie lived in Naperville and has been a resident of Rockford since 1963, a prior employee of Illinois National Bank. She has been the loving wife of Roland Benson since 1977; they had 34 truly wonderful years together. She is survived by her husband, Roland, her two children by a previous husband, Margaret L. Allen of Rogers, Ark. and Albert L. Allen of Gorham, IL, four grandchildren (John and Jason Van Slyke, David and Emily Allen), and one great-grandson(Jon Van Slyke).

A private family service and internment will be held at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Machesney Park. Donations in her memory can be made to Hospice of America. Visit us at www.SunSetfhmemgardens.com. Sunset Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements 8800 N Alpine Rd, Machesney Park, IL 61115