Ernest C. Benson

Ernest C. Benson, of 118 King St., passed away Monday, Aug. 17, 2015, at his home, following a lengthy illness. Ernest was born Aug. 12, 1925 in Bolivar and was a son of Clyde and Bessie Raub Benson. On Jan. 9, 1954 in Olean he married his loving wife of 61 years, Rita D. Bentley, who survives. Ernest was a graduate of Wellsville High School. He served in the Army from Nov. 10, 1943 until Jan. 20, 1946. On Jan 21, 1946, he enlisted in the Air Force and served until Dec. 31, 1946. Ernest worked as a pipe fitter at Dresser Rand starting in 1956 until his retirement in 1987, after 31 years. He was a member of the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, where he formerly served as an elder for many years. Ernest enjoyed reading, working in his garden & around the house but his family was most important. Along with his loving wife, Ernest is survived by three sons, Allen Benson of Olean, Aaron (Laurie) Benson of Middleburg, FL, and James Benson of Bradford, PA; three daughters, Paulette (Wilton) Armstrong of Richton, MS, Jenny (Terry) Armstrong of Carlsbad, NM, and Julie Benson of Olean; five grandchildren; one great granddaughter; and one sister, Phyllis Denhoff of Wellsboro, PA. Ernest was predeceased by a brother, Clyde Benson, Jr. A memorial service will be held at the Central Hinsdale Kingdom Hall of Jehovah Witness at a date and time to be announced. Arrangements are under the direction of the Letro-McIntosh-Spink Funeral Home, Inc., #646 E. State St., Olean, New York 14760. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Central Hinsdale Kingdom Hall of Jehovah Witness, 4258 Route 16N, Hinsdale, NY 14743. Online condolences may be made by clicking on the button above.