Robert Henry Benson

Robert (in his 97th year) passed peacefully at Community Nursing Home, Port Hope Ontario the early morning of  March 3rd 2012 surrounded by family and the very capable and compassionate nursing staff there.  Robert was the beloved husband of Madeleine (Hay) for 55 years until her death in 1997.  He was the only child of Starr Manley Benson and Katherine (Meyer) Benson.  Robert was the loving father of Clay Benson (Carol) of Port Hope and Leslie Benson of Grafton, Ontario and grandfather of Christine Benson (Michael Woods), Caitlin Benson (Brandon Duck) and Tonya Davis (Philip).  In his early years Bob was an avid canoeist and medal winning downhill skier.  During World War II he worked at the Dehaviland plant in Downsview and was involved in the production of the Mosquito Aircraft.  He met Madeleine there and after they married in 1942 they eventually settled in King City, Ontario and built several unique houses in that area.  He established a woodworking business "Kingcraft".  He later worked with architectural firms supervising the construction of the new Toronto City Hall and Ontario Place.  When he retired he built a log house beside Wilmot Creek and worked with Madeleine in their antiques business in Newcastle, Ontario.  Dad had unwavering integrity, wonderful intuition, strong determination, a heart for helping others, and a playful sense of humour.  He will be sadly missed by his very close and devoted family.  At Robert's request there will be no service.  Arrangements have been made through MacCoubrey Funeral Home Cobourg, Ontario.  Robert's family would like to express their sincere gratitude to everyone at Community Nursing Home, Port Hope for their exceptional personal care of Robert.  We are very thankful to have had such friendly and supportive people looking after Dad.  Donations can be made in Robert's memory to Port Hope A.C.O. or the R.C.A.F. Memorial Museum, Trenton.  Condolences received at www.MacCoubrey.com