Gladys Benson passed peacefully into the arms of her Saviour, Jesus Christ on Tuesday, June 22, 2021 at Van Daele Manor in her 98th year after a life well lived with grace, style and determination. We rejoice with our beloved Mom that she is now at rest in Heaven with her much loved husband, Harry who predeceased her in 1982.
Harry came to Sault Ste Marie from Niagara Falls, ON to work at Algoma Steel and swept Gladys off of her feet. They subsequently married on November 19, 1940. Gladys was the loving daughter born to Noble and Florence West on June 28, 1923 in Sault Ste. Marie, ON and a cherished sister to the late Edwin (2020), (Dorothy) and the late Doris McLean (2003), (late John). Predeceased by Harry’s parents, Noble and Carolyn Benson and his nine brothers and sisters . Gladys is survived by her much loved sister-in-law, Marilyn Kehoe. Dearest mother and mother-in-law of Robert and Carol, the late Gerald (2001) and Lorna, John and Ruth, the late infant son, Stephen (1952), the late Joan (2018) and Roger Mitchell, Elizabeth and Lorenzo Bongolan, Carol and Steven Lorenzo, Janet and Ken Hagerman Jr. The most proud and caring Grandmother of 21 - Melanie (Stephan), Marsha (Ian), Maxine (Brad); Sheldon (Lisa), Lacey, late Logan (2006), late Bill, (2019), Lorne (Shanna); Andrea (Tim), Philip (Tara); David (Kelly), Jennifer (Jeff), Laurie (David); Leah (Alden), Stephen (Sarah), Colton; Allyson (Alexander), Graham (Heather); Brian (Alison), Alex (Katie), Michael (Samantha). Precious GiGi of 42 and special Great GiGi of 7. Gladys is also survived by many nieces and nephews within the West and Benson families. Gladys lived a full life and loved and appreciated so many good friends and cherished their close relationships over the years.
Gladys was a faithful friend and was very thoughtful to those who needed a special touch always putting other’s needs ahead of her own. Her generosity touched everyone she met. As the matriarch of the family she instilled a sense of caring, generosity and love in her children and grandchildren. Although she is physically no longer with us, she will live on in our hearts with a lifetime of unforgettable memories to cherish. We could not have loved and admired her more.
We would like to thank all of the amazing care providers at Van Daele Manor who loved and respectfully cared for Mom over the last six years.
A private service will be held at the First Baptist Church. Please go to www.funeraweb.com and choose Gladys' name to view the funeral online anytime Tuesday, June 29, 2021 for up to 90 days following the service. In lieu of flowers, please honour Gladys' memory by donating to ARCH or Alzheimer Society of Sault Ste Marie & Algoma District. Arrangements entrusted to the Arthur Funeral Home - Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington Street East 705-759-2522).
Please visit www.arthurfuneralhome.com to leave a message of condolence as a keepsake for the family.