Arthur L. ‘Ben’ Benson, 76, Navy Veteran

Arthur L. “Ben” Benson, 76, of Haverhill, passed away Tuesday, June 30, at the Holy Family Hospital at Merrimack Valley, Haverhill.

Benson was born in Medford, Sept. 27, 1938, the son of the late Eugene and Marianne (McKenzie) Benson. He was educated in the Somerville school system and graduated from Hollis Center High School in Maine. He enlisted in the Navy after graduating high school and served aboard the USS. Franklin D. Roosevelt aircraft carrier. Having a knack for working with his hands, Benson enjoyed fixing clocks and playing the piano. He was a member of the Boston Conservatory and played piano professionally for a short time. He would also play at local nursing homes and around Haverhill. He was a past member of the Somerville Lodge A.F. & A.M.

Benson is survived by his wife, Dorothy (Bunker) Benson of Haverhill; a daughter, Judith Staples of New Hampshire; grandson, Timothy Staples; three step children, Wayne A. Snow and his wife Cheryle of Haverhill, Donna Berkowitz and her husband William of Stoneham and Debra Ponte and her husband Joseph of Londonderry; 13 step grandchildren; and 13 step great-grandchildren.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend calling hours Friday, July 3, from 5 to 8 p.m., at the H.L. Farmer & Sons Funeral Home, 106 Summer St., Haverhill. His funeral service and burial is private and at the convenience of his family. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to the Senior Adult Behavioral Medicine Center, 140 Lincoln Ave., Haverhill MA O1830.