Eric Benson

Eric Benson, age 70, of Bear, DE, passed away on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, following a year-long journey with glioblastoma. He was surrounded by his girls – wife Kim, and daughters Jenny and Mary Kate.

Born in Aston, PA on May 28, 1955, he was the son of the late Ronald Keith and Ruth (Prenatt) Benson. He spent his early years in Roselle Park, NJ then made the Newark, DE area home for the remainder of his life. His membership at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Newark began as a teen and continued later in life as a member of the pre-school board. Cherished friends were met through his involvement with the church. A graduate of Christiana High School, he went on to the University of Delaware where he studied music and made lifelong friends as a refounding member of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity.

Eric's love of music led him to a career in the piano industry, as well as various leadership positions in the Delaware State Music Teachers Association. After retiring from Jacob's Music, Eric and Kim enjoyed their newfound free time by traveling with friends and family, spending time at the beach – where Eric always enjoyed a day of fishing (successful or not), watching the Phillies, and working on home improvement projects.

Eric is survived by his loving wife of 42 years Kim (Bjork) Benson; daughters, Jenny Benson (Brett Smith), and Mary Kate Benson (Adam Krevchuck); brothers, Charles Benson (Ann), and Jeff Benson (Beth); sister-in-law, Karen Burns (David); as well as 5 nieces and nephews – Scott, Brian, and Garrett Benson, and Anna and Ryan Burns.

A visitation for family and friends will be held from 11 am until 12 noon on Saturday, February 28th, 2026 at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 121 West Park Place, Newark, Delaware where a memorial service will begin at 12 noon. Inurnment will be help privately.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Eric's memory to the Darren Daulton Foundation, 1339 Chestnut Street, Ste 500, Philadelphia, PA 19107, or online by clicking here, whose mission is to provide financial assistance to those suffering from primary malignant brain tumors; or the charity of your choice.

The family wishes to acknowledge the "village" that helped Eric throughout his illness – all of the wonderful friends and family who stepped in to help wherever they saw a need – a very sincere "thank you" to you all. To Delaware Hospice for their guidance and to Alex for the day-to-day care he provided with kindness.