George E. Benson Jr.'s Obituary
George E. Benson Jr, 79, of Fort Myers, Florida died peacefully this week, his family by his side. Born in South Kingstown, Rhode Island on November 18, 1942, where he lived with his wife and two daughters until he retired to Florida in 2002. He was known to all as a friend, coach and advocate for his colleagues and community.
George was a veteran of the United States Army and spent years as a mail carrier for the United States Postal Service, devoting time as a union steward advocating on behalf of his colleagues. An avid team player and sports fan, George was known by his teammates and friends as fair and dedicated, serving as umpire and team leader of softball and basketball teams.
He set a standard in sports and in his work; and was always respected for his commitment and resilience. True to his spirit, he volunteered for many years with the Special Olympics, bringing his love for sports and camaraderie to the participants each summer.
Always one to keep busy, George had a thriving landscape business with his father, George Sr, and his dear friend Pogie Chapel.
He always appreciated and enjoyed spending time in nature, fishing the waters of Salt Pond in his skiff during the summers, and spending time with his cherished family. Their beautiful home on Robinson Street was well-known to those who visited.
After retiring to Fort Myers, he remained active, playing golf, pickleball and baseball with his wife and friends. Always one to lend a helping hand, George made The Benson’s yard a place where landscapers in his neighborhood knew they could get a kind word and a cold drink on hot day.
George is the son of the late George E. Benson, Sr and the late Loretta B. (Smith) Benson. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years Paulette (LaRiviere) Benson, his daughters Lisa Benson Patt and Lori Ann Benson, his grandsons Noah and Zachary Moreno, and his son in law Dale R.Patt.
A Memorial Service for George will be celebrated by Pastor Graham A. Stein at 11:00 AM on Friday, May 12, 2023 inside the Chapel at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Boulevard, Fort Myers, FL 33907, (239) 936-0555. The U.S. Army will provide Military Funeral Honors in grateful recognition of George's honorable service in the Armed Forces of our nation. Following these services, friends and family will recess to adjacent Memorial Gardens Cemetery where George's Urn will be laid to rest in the Field of Honor Section.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Hope Hospice of Fort Myers would be appreciated.
What’s your fondest memory of George?
What’s a lesson you learned from George?
Share a story where George's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with George you’ll never forget.
How did George make you smile?