Name: Visitation for William Benson
Start: 2016-07-21T23:00:00.000Z
End: 2016-07-22T01:00:00.000Z
Location: CLOSED-The Moore Funeral Home

BENSON - William (Bill) died on July 19, 2016 at the age of 97 in his home surrounded by family. Bill was born in Brooklyn, NY on June 19, 1919, the youngest of seven children. Predeceased by his wonderful wife of 67 years, Annette, and his son, Jeffrey. Devoted father of sons Richard (Ellen), Donald (Faith); Poppy to Jocelyn (Jordan Licht), Alexandra (Robert McNeill), Jessica and Samantha; Great grandfather to Greyson Asher Licht. Proud graduate of Ohio University where he ran the one and two mile in 1941, 1946, and 1947 and where he met his beloved wife. In the years between, Bill served in World War II as 1st Lieutenant Army Quarter - Master Corps. He retired from Liberty Mutual Insurance after 35 years of service. Bill started running again when he was aged 60, and since than has run in 987 races and covered 20,100 miles. Bill was a member of the Greater Long Island Running Club, donning his yellow "Senior Feet" jersey in all races. He was was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Lynbrook where he served as a lector and usher. Bill asked that donations be made to Rolling Thunder Special Needs Program (www.rtsnp.org). Family will receive friends on Thursday, July 21st 2-4pm and 7-9pm at The Moore Funeral Home (54 West Jamaica Avenue, Valley Stream). Religious service will at held on Friday, July 22nd at 10am at St. John's Lutheran Church (13 Blake Avenue, Lynbrook).

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Published by Newsday on Jul. 21, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for William Benson

8 Entries

Joe Vissichelli

September 17, 2016

Having in high school with Bill's sons Jeff and Richard, I was always thrilled to "run into" him in Valley Stream park when we'd both work out. Such a motivated and enthusiastic man who could be more inspiring and a finer example of aging with grace and purpose?

Sad he missed the 5th Avenue Mile this year but glad he finally got his overdue notice on CBS news last year for the phenomenon he was. At least we can seek out the video online when we need to recall his spirited presence.

Betty Kay

September 16, 2016

A sad event but what a wonderful life and man! He and Annette were good friends and neighbors to my parents, Dan & Marcia Dudenhoeffer and looked after me and my sibling many times as we played with Jeff and Richie.

My thoughts are with the family. Thanks for the wonderful memories!

Anna C

July 31, 2016

As someone who started running late in life I truly looked up to him he will always be an inspiration.

Lance Griffin

July 30, 2016

I always cherished your father's visits to the football field at South High School. Every year when our preseason practices were in session he would visit to say hello and we would converse about the prospects for the upcoming season. On other occasions we would simply wave in acknowledgement as he jogged around the track preparing for his next race. Your dad loved the 'race', the competition; whether his own or our football team's. Our conversations just flowed so smoothly and comfortably. Your dad was brimming with positivity and support for our team and me personally. He always made me feel important and respected. And I, like many, was in awe of your dad's perseverance and dedication to running at his age. He was a gifted man. Your dad was a pleasure to have as a friend. For me, he was an unforgettable person in my life - a man of character, integrity and sensitivity. It was an honor to have shared life-moments with him. I will always remember your dad. He will indeed rest in peace in heaven and in the hearts and souls of all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

July 27, 2016

Bill is a gentleman and a pillar of integrity. Best in the business. His family has my condolences on the loss of such a fine man. Bill was the cornerstone of 10 Rock at Liberty Mutual's large claims department in Manhattan these many years ago.

Bob Booher

July 21, 2016

You were always an inspiration to me over the years to remain active and exercise Uncle Bill!
We have fond memories of you and Aunt Annette attending our annual summer backyard parties in Bohemia! We may have lost you here on earth, but heaven has gained a wonderful person! Love,
Kathy and Jimmy McGarrigle (Sorensen)

Ken Parker

July 21, 2016

I knew Bill from his days at Liberty Mutual. He was a true gentleman. My prayers are with his family.

Bill Benson @ GLIRC

Rich Czarnowski

July 21, 2016

Billy-Boy -

You are my Hero Runner .......

Trying to catch-up to you, at the back of the pack, was a challenge for me.

GOD Speed on your trip to Heaven.

You've earned your place there, for sure.

Amen.

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