BENSON RICHARD UDALL
Age 74, of Monroeville, passed away Sunday, May 19, 2013. Dick is survived by his wife of 48 years, Veronica (Kotulak) Benson; daughter, Beth Ann (Lt. Colonel Christopher) Call of Germany, Michael (Christine Nagy) Benson of New Castle; sons, James Benson of Wellsburg, WV, and Steven (Liliana) Benson of Macomb, MI; brothers, Karl and Howard Raymond; sisters, Judy, Jean, and Margaret; also survived by grandchildren, Melissa, Robert, Claire, Michael, Zachary, Lucas, and Dominic. Dick, a graduate of Phoenix College, University of Arizona, University of Cincinnati (University Tuition Fellowship), University of Pittsburgh, and the London School of Economics (B. G. Lamme Fellowship), began his career at Westinghouse as a switchgear applications engineer. After a few years, he opted to join the Nike Zeus project conducting tests for ballistic missile reentry from Patrick AFB Florida, Ascension Island, UK, and Pretoria, South Africa. In the mid-1960s, he returned to Westinghouse to participate in the early years of computer programming by writing a large electric power distribution simulation program used by power companies to plan the growth of their networks. Dick continued his 30 year Westinghouse career with assignments in the United States, South America, Saudi Arabia, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Upon retirement, Dick remained in Saudi Arabia as the General Manager of WESCOSA and grew the company from 42 employees to over 400. During Desert Storm, Dick and his company provided extensive assistance and comfort to the American military. He was loved and respected by his employer and employees as a kind, generous man who took time to get to know those with whom he worked. Since retiring from WESCOSA, Dick has served on the executive board or advisor of Buckingham Capital, Aerovox, and Trantech while also providing consulting services to companies in Asia, the Middle East, Canada, and elsewhere. Throughout his career, Dick travelled extensively, conducting business in over 50 countries, making friends wherever he went. He will be missed by all-friends, family and business associates throughout the world. Dick was a Licensed Professional Engineer and was involved with numerous professional and business groups including the National Society of Professional Engineers, Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers, Society of Manufacturing Engineers, and the American Business Association of Saudi Arabia. Dick was a private instrument rated pilot for over 50 years with 2,300 hours of flying time across the country for both business and pleasure. He also enjoyed scuba diving (dive master), Bridge (Life Master), tennis, golf, and planning elaborate vacations for the family. Friends will be received Sunday 1-3 and 6-8 p.m. at the JOBE FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, INC. (MONROEVILLE / PLUM CHAPEL), corner of (445) Beatty Rd. and 48 North, Monroeville (412-856-4747). Mass of Christian Burial at North American Martyrs Memorial Day, Monday, 10 a.m. A private interment will be Tuesday at St. Joseph Cemetery. Being a past member of the Board of Maricopa County Community College, memorial contributions may be made to the Maricopa County Community College Foundation, Alumni Development Office, 1202 West Thomas Road, Phoenix, AZ 85013.
www.jobefuneralhome.com
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5 Entries
August 2, 2013
Dick was my boss in WESCOSA in Saudi Arabia for over 12 years and I used to call him Big B. I was the shortest of Managers and he, the tallest. I have learnt a great deal of knowledge from him. I came to know of his demise recently from a common friend. For me, he will live forever.
IM Salian
May 25, 2013
Tom and Barb Taylor
Saturday Evening
Veronica, and Family
We are so saddened and shocked to hear of Dick's passing. Sally sent a note referring to the obituary. Although we are six hours away and not able to be with you, please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
May 24, 2013
Debra Hartzel
Beth and Family...Our prayers are with you all during this difficult and painful time. (I am Chris's Aunt Debbie)
May 24, 2013
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
-Harry & Carol Dawkins
Monroeville, PA
May 24, 2013
Carol & Warren Sullivan
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
If you need anything you know I am here for you.
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