William Allen Benson

William “Bill” Benson passed away peacefully on December 9, 2010. Bill was born on April 1, 1926, and had lived in West Seattle his entire life. Bill was a veteran of the Merchant Marines and the Army, serving time in both WW II and the Korean War. After his service, he attended Seattle University and the Seattle Police Academy. He retired from the Seattle Police force after 33 years of dedicated service. Bill enjoyed the outdoors and would spend many afternoons walking along the promenade of Alki Beach. He had a special gift of a listening ear and people along the promenade would be drawn to him to share their life stories; they would become his “beach friends.” Bill also had a love of cars and spent much of his life trying to “fix” them, which is a talent he shared with his son. Bill was a kind, gentle man and loved his family dearly. He will be missed by all who had the pleasure to know him.

Bill is survived by his children, Roy Benson and Mary Leidy (husband Leon, stepdaughter, Sophia); sister, Bernice Link; three nieces, and a nephew. A memorial service will be held at Tibbetts United Methodist Church, 3940 41st Ave. S.W., on Tuesday, December 21st at 2:00 p.m.