Calvin A. Bensch

SIMSBURY – Calvin Anderson Bensch, 88, lovingly known as "Opa" to all, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 13, 2025 at his home with his family after a brief illness. He was the loving husband of the late Judith (Gurka) Bensch for nearly 40 years. Born August 28, 1936 in Hartford; the son of the late Alfred and Vivian (Anderson) Bensch. Calvin proudly served in the U.S. Army at Fort Bragg in North Carolina. He worked before retirement in Sales for freight space. He was an avid skier well into his 70's. Calvin would love to read good books, mostly military based, and enjoyed classical music while working outside in his yard, in his garden, or feeding the birds. He always looked forward to his summer canoe trips with his son. Calvin and his family enjoyed camping up and down the east coast in their travel trailer. He was very well-known for his abstract art using the pen name, "Oscar Ruit." This brought a smile on his face when they realized what they were actually saying. His canoe also bore the same name, which demonstrated his quirky but lovable sense of humor. Calvin was eccentric. He loved jokes and was a social butterfly, visiting neighbors, families, and friends alike. Most will remember Calvin enjoying the visits he had for lunches and dinners. He was proud to be with his family during these times, always happy to introduce them to others. Calvin spent much time attending the races at Limerock Park in Lakeville, which was a special place for him. Calvin is survived by his cherished children, Kristen Mather and husband Michael of Avon, Karyn Fales and husband Mick of Avon, Kimberly Brusseau and husband Fred of New Gloucester, Maine, and Calvin Bensch II of Simsbury; beloved grandchildren, Anderson, Owen and Kathryn Mather and Logan Bensch; as well as all their pets whom were lovingly dubbed by Calvin, their "fuzzy sons." Friends may call on Saturday, September 6, 2025 at Montano-Shea Funeral Home, 5 Steele Road, New Hartford from 2 – 4 PM. Graveside services will be private at Hillside Cemetery in Torrington. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: The Wounded Warriors Project at support.woundedwarriorproject.org. Visit an online guestbook at montano-shea.com.