Arne Johan Benestad

Arne was born on July 5, 1959, in Nyack, New York, to the late Kaare Benestad and Gullbjorg Benestad. After graduating from Clarkstown North Senior High School in 1977, he attended a carpentry school where he learned his trade. In 1986, he started his own business with his father, named K.A.L. Carpentry in Congers, NY, which he would eventually take over. Arne was very dedicated to his work, and it showed — K.A.L. Carpentry became the business people relied on for all of their construction needs.

Arne met his wife, Deborah Benestad, and together they had two children, Maria Benestad and Kenneth Benestad. He loved his children and was not only a father but also a coach to them. Beyond his family, Arne was a great community leader. He coached sports and other skills for his children and for many young kids in the community, serving as a father figure to those who needed him. He was loved not only by his family but by all who knew him.

Arne was preceded in death by his daughter, Maria Benestad; his father, Kaare Benestad; and his mother, Gullbjorg Benestad.

Arne is survived by his wife, Deborah Benestad; his son, Kenneth Benestad; his brother, Svein Benestad (partner Michele Oliveira); his brother, Leif Benestad (wife Angela Benestad); his brother, Tor Benestad; his nephew, Kris Benestad; and his nieces, Laina Benestad and Brooke Benestad.

A visitation will be held at Apex Funeral Home on September 19, 2025 at 4PM with a service to follow at 5PM.