Dennis Michael Benson

Dennis Michael Benson, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on 1/22/26. He was born on December 7, 1949.

Dennis graduated from Weehawken High School and proudly served in the United States Navy from 1968 to 1972. He was a man of integrity, discipline, and unwavering reliability, known for his strong work ethic, honor, and grit. Dennis believed in doing things the right way, and if he gave you his word, you could take it to the bank.

He was the devoted husband and best friend of his beloved wife, Joan. A man of routine and strong preferences, Dennis did things his own way, and Joan loved him fully and exactly as he was. Through their life together, Dennis learned to enjoy new experiences, travel for pleasure, and build new lasting friendships. Their marriage was rooted in loyalty, respect, and deep love.

Dennis was the proud father and hero to his three daughters, Victoria, Denise, and Dawn, and cherished every moment spent with them. He especially loved long walks and meaningful conversations about memories, life, and the world. Every minute with him was a gift.

He was a loving grandfather to Desiree (26), Madison (21), Cody (16), Kendal (11), and Nolan (2).

Dennis adored his brother,Stephen, and treasured their time together, which was often filled with laughter and playful moments. He is also survived by his sister, Donna, and appreciated the time they spent together. Dennis also had many lifelong friends and deeply valued every moment spent with them. Especially singing Doo Wop songs in his falsetto voice. He was preceded in death by his sister Barbara, his mother Diane, and his father David, whom he deeply admired.

By nature, Dennis was serious and thoughtful, quietly worrying for the people he loved. He was not outwardly emotional, but his love was shown through consistency, presence, and action. If Dennis loved you, you knew it.

He was known as the king of dad jokes, loved sharing stories by the pool, and had a memorable belly laugh. He enjoyed going into the city, attending concerts, and all things "oldies but goodies." Music brought him great joy and he cherished his record collection, loved Johnny Mathis, and sang with a voice reminiscent of Frankie Valli.

With his passing, the world feels forever shifted. He will be deeply missed.

A celebration of Dennis's life will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026 from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Frech-McKnight Funeral Home, 161 Washington Avenue, Dumont. A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026, 11:00 AM at St. Mary's R.C. Church, 280 Washington Avenue, Dumont. Cremation will be private. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Dennis's memory to an Elks National Foundation; www.elks.org.

Mailing Address:

BPO Elks of the USA
2750 N. Lakeview Avenue
Chicago, IL 60614-1889