Barbara Ann Benson

Barbara Ann Benson was born March 31, 1939 in Chicago to Stanley and Dorothy (nee Heyder) Stec. She died June 7, 2015 at Northwest Community Hospital in Arlington Heights.Nothing made Barb happier than spending time with her family." Her husband Bruce was the love of her life, and Bruce often referred to Barb adoringly as "my bride."" They were a perfect match, and loved taking care of each other throughout their long and joyful marriage." As the "matriarch" of the family, Barb was intimately involved in the lives of her children and grandchildren, by whom she was affectionately called Mom, Grandma, and "G."" She was elated at the announcement of her first great-grandchild, due in October." Barb was a regular sight on the sidelines of her family's sporting events." Faith also played a critical role in her life, and she routinely attended church services with her family at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Arlington Heights. The ultimate host, Barb took great pleasure in gathering family and friends at her home in Inverness, as well as at her vacation home in Scottsdale, Arizona." She reveled in serving up a feast (including her famous mashed potatoes), and wasn't afraid of taking your money in a game of gin rummy." Barb was the first person to call to brag about an accomplishment, to seek comfort from during difficult times, or to enjoy a lighthearted conversation.Barb is survived by her husband of 55 years, Bruce Benson; her children Tami (Robert) Flubacker, Michael (Amy) Benson and Traci (David) Anderson; her grandchildren Stefanie (Christopher) Dozois, Mark and Scott Flubacker, Mia and Alexander Benson, Christian and Zoe Anderson; her brother Steven (Susan) Stec and by her niece and two nephews.She is preceded in death by her parents.Visitation Thursday June 11, 2015 from 4:00 PM until the time of memorial service at 6:00 PM at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 111 W. Olive, Arlington Heights, IL 60004. Interment private.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to St. Jude Children"s Research Hospital, P.O. Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38101-9908 or St. Peter Lutheran Church in Arlington Heights.