Obituary of Gerald Edward Benson

Passed away peacefully at Hotel-Dieu Grace Healthcare surrounded by his loving family at 82 years of age. He is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 60 years, Barbara (Brunette) and their three children, Pamela Nohr, David and daughter-in-law Chanel, Mary Albers and son-in-law Richard. His grandchildren were the light of his days and apples of his eyes – Michelle Nohr, Chrissy Gavin (Jamie Gavin), Justin Benson, Jakob Benson, Phillip Albers (Chantelle McIntyre), Adam Albers, Stephanie Albers (Craig Maser), Mitchell Gutierrez, Alexis Schimmel, Michael Schimmel and great grandchildren Ethan Schuyler and Jayda Patterson. He is also survived by his siblings Elizabeth, Rosemary and Rita as well as sister-in-law Bernice Vega and brother-in-law Leland Danforth and numerous cherished nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his mother and father, Mamie and Theodore Benson as well as his siblings Irene, Gordon and Anthony and sister-in-law Gladyce Brzezinski. Gerry was a veteran of the Korean War and a proud employee of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for 50 years, his most recent assignment being Derrick Boat Master of the C.B. Veler, clearing the St. Lawrence Seaway. He married the love of his life Barbara in 1958 and soon settled near Green Bay Wisconsin with their young family. They later moved to Windsor, Ontario Canada. Gerry loved to golf and watch his favorite team the Green Bay Packers. He supported his children and grandchildren enthusiastically in all of their endeavors. He never missed a game, dance recital or event and was always in the bleachers or audience cheering and rooting for his grandkids. His life was defined by his love for his family and God. He will forever be remembered for his goofy sense of humour and ability to get everyone laughing with his silliness and funny pictures he liked to stage with his grandkids. At Gerry’s request, cremation has taken place. Arrangements are entrusted to Simple Choice Cremation Centre and condolences can be shared at simplechoicecremation.ca. A memorial service, including traditional native prayers and veteran’s honours will take place at a later date in De Pere, Wisconsin. In Lieu of flowers, please direct any donations to Hotel-Dieu Grace Healthcare, Palliative Care Unit. Lastly, the family would like to thank the staff and Dr. Freeman of the Palliative Care Unit and the administration of Hotel-Dieu Grace Healthcare for making Gerry’s last days comfortable and beautiful for our family. They are amazing and compassionate people. Special thanks to Reverend Hilton Gomes also. All of the kindnesses, big and small, will forever be remembered.