Colleen A. Bengtson

Colleen A. (Kelly) Bengtson, 70, of Ellington, loving wife of 45 years to William L. Bengtson, passed away suddenly at her home on Monday, June 15, 2025. She was born on March 19, 1955, in Manchester, one of four children to the late Thomas and Dolores (Heim) Kelly.
Colleen grew up in South Windsor, attended local schools, and was a graduate of South Windsor High School, Class of 1973. She was employed with Travelers Insurance for over 40 years in their I.T. Department, where she found great joy in both her work and her colleagues. Colleen retired within the last three years, embracing a quieter life surrounded by the things and people she loved most.
Throughout her life, Colleen always put others first. She was generous, dependable, and always willing to lend a helping hand. She was the hub, the glue, and the provider of her family. Her two sons were her life's purpose and brought her immeasurable joy. She deeply cherished every moment spent with them and took immense pride in being their foundation and support.
A collector of all things beautiful, Colleen especially loved nature. She was the green thumb of the family, with a particular passion for flowers and plants. In her retirement, she found peace in tending to her stunning outdoor gardens, which became a personal sanctuary. She also had a soft spot for animals, lovingly caring for her dogs and cats throughout the years and even feeding strays that found their way to her yard.
One of Colleen's favorite pastimes was watching live eagle cams. She was captivated by their grace and strength, and found tranquility in observing their lives. In addition, she enjoyed Tarot readings, which she embraced as a meaningful tool for self-reflection and spiritual guidance.
Although our time with Colleen has been cut short, her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends for years to come.
In addition to her husband, William, Colleen is survived by her two sons, Jeremy William and Brandon Thomas Bengtson, both of Ellington; her two sisters, Linda Brown of Manchester and Donna Fish and her husband Richard of Florida; her brother, Thomas Kelly, Jr. of Ellington; her nieces, Jamie Fish and Hannah Fish; her nephew, Nathan Fish; as well as extended nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
Colleen's family is honoring her wishes, and no funeral services will be held. Ladd-Turkington & Carmon Funeral Home in Vernon is caring for her arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Friends of Big Bear Valley, P.O. Box 422, Fawnskin, CA 92333. To leave an online message of condolence for her family, please visit www.carmonfuneralhome.com