Edward David Benson, age 71, of Hockessin, DE, passed away at home on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, while under the care of hospice. Ed was born on October 16, 1953, in Kingston, PA to the late Lt Col Robert Lee Benson and Shirley Elizabeth (Jones) Benson. Ed was proud of his Air Force upbringing andContinue Reading
Edward David Benson, age 71, of Hockessin, DE, passed away at home on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, while under the care of hospice. Ed was born on October 16, 1953, in Kingston, PA to the late Lt Col Robert Lee Benson and Shirley Elizabeth (Jones) Benson. Ed was proud of his Air Force upbringing and fondly shared stories of the many places they traveled including a three year assignment in Japan. When Ed and Laureen purchased their 100 year old home in Hockessin back in 1983, Ed commented that the only way he was leaving this house was with a toe tag. He was always insistent on doing things the Ed way.
Ed spent 25 years working in the theater, mainly the Grand Opera House, first as Master Carpenter and then as Technical Director. He was privileged to work with some of the greatest artists of our time. Vincent Price and Ella Fitzgerald were two of his favorite performers he met during his career. A talented woodworker and mechanic, Ed could fix anything. He helped restore several old theaters in the area including the State Theater in Newark, the Rialto in Wilmington, and was a consultant on the Everett in Middletown. During this time, he was busy renovating his historic home in Hockessin. He carefully remodeled and expanded his house, making use of salvaged materials reclaimed from old structures. It is something very special he leaves behind for his family.
During his younger years, he had a Harley and enjoyed going on Poker runs with his fellow bikers. He was a member of ABATE and strongly supportive of the motorcycle safety classes that were offered. Ed enjoyed live music and up until last year would winch his wheelchair into the back of his pick-up truck to go see a band. He and Laureen attended the Philadelphia Folk Festival, the Delaware Valley Bluegrass Festival, multiple Blues Block parties in St. George’s, and local venues with area musicians.
Ed was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He is survived by his wife, Laureen Eick-Benson, children: Luke Robert Benson (wife, Ashley), and Kyle Edward Benson (wife, Sarah); grandchildren: Justin Blake Wade and Parker Robert Vernon Benson; sister, Barbara Williams; brother, Roger Benson and niece, Sabrina Williams. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him. A memorial service to honor Ed and celebrate his life will be held on Thursday, July 3, from 1-3 pm at the Center for Diversity, Inclusion, and Social Equity – the Hockessin Colored School #107 located at 4266 Mill Creek Road, Hockessin, DE. Please bring poems, songs, and stories to share. If you so desire, a donation can be made in Ed’s name to the Hockessin Colored School at hockessincoloredschool107@gmail.com or the Hockessin Fourth of July Fireworks at hockessin4th@gmail.com as July 4th was Ed’s favorite holiday.
Garrett Arai
left a message on June 8, 2025:
To the family of a lifelong good friend. We were all so very close. Ed will greatly be missed.
Garrett
Tommy Davis
left a message on June 4, 2025:
Ed,
I was very sad to hear of your passing. I knew you were having medical issues but did not realize it was hospice time. I should have called. Emails are just not good enough. Of course, we had about a 54-year gap in time since Dover. I met Ed as a new freshman at Dover Air Force Base High School. We were both service dependents in a life that most would seem strange...definitely different. Not us; it was all we knew! My first memory of Ed was when he invited me over to listen to his Bill Cosby records. Those that have never heard the now old "Noah" Cosby stories are missing out on one of the funniest yarns in comedy - Noah: "Me and you, Lord." Please Google this old Bill Cosby hit and know Ed is smiling down as you are laughing. Ed was the Chaplin's kid. And there we were in his living room listing to Cosby tell a biblical tale. Little did we know the times we spent together at Dover AFB High School were really some of the best times. The Bowling Alley! Nuff said. I really hated leaving right before my Senior year and losing contact with you and many more at Dover. But it was a real blessing to connect after the recent DAFB HS reunion via telephone. Thank you, Connie! It was one of the best conversations in my life. Who would have thought Mike (Foldy) was still alive and doing well? Ed, please watch over us from above. I believe we will all be together in the future. I can tell from the many posting that you continued to make a difference with many after high school. Till later...
Mike Foldy
left a message on June 2, 2025:
My condolences to Laureen, to Ed’s sons, and to his extended family and friends.
Where to start the memories? what is fit to print?: dear Ed, wild man, my best friend in high school, preacher’s kid (PK), (who knew where the chapel wine was kept), Jokester, instigator, and mischief maker extraordinare, all around nice guy, early fan of TV wrestling (wrasslin’), a techie before there was tech, a man of diverse interests, incredible energy, and a real force of nature in his own inimitable mode, a fellow inventor of fake languages, fellow lumberjack and fellow “Greaser,” (thanks for explaining, Jim!), fellow boycotter of the senior prom, and in sum, the most entertaining guy you’d ever want to hang out with. Never a dull moment with Ed. We will all miss you, buddy! School was a blast for us then, but that’s it’s own story. After school our gang of friends hung out most nights at the DAFB bowling alley, rarely, if ever? bowling, as I remember, but most often gabbing away and then venturing out, packed in multiple cars, cruising the strips of Dover for fast food and speeding through the rural roads of the local backwater sticks looking for anything that might be fun or at least diverting. It was mostly just a lot of horsing around and fast driving, but it was our own late 60s version of American Graffiti. We were all pretty innocent and unserious then. In retrospect, it was a grand old time, and Ed is a key part of my memories of that time.
Rick Celia
left a message on June 1, 2025:
I met Ed at the Old Buggy Tavern and was sorry I did not get his number. Later, I met Ed and Laureen at an ABATE party. It was a friendship I sorely missed later on, when I moved to Michigan. Ed was such a good friend to Bob Mazetti, especially when Bob's son died. I thought of us as the Zen Biker Trio. Three very different people with a common bond. Ed had a sense of humor and intelligence few people have. His kindness was even bigger then he was. GodSpeed mi Amigo!
Ron Carney
left a message on May 31, 2025:
He lived an interesting and special life. I’m honored to have met him!!
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Debbie and Noah Antoine
left a message on May 31, 2025:
Ed / Mr. Benson you are someone Noah and I will never forget . Your kindness was so comforting when we moved next door to you and Loreen.
When you came over in your wheelchair to hang a bird house for Noah when we moved in ( he was 7) well that was something both of us will never forget. So many Blue birds are thankful for sure!
We have quite a few memories and will cherish them. You and Loreen are the best neighbors and we are blessed.
I know you are in a better place now at peace.
Love Debbie & Noah.
Jim King
left a message on May 31, 2025:
Ed was a part of a group of guys in high school who like to go out and stuff our faces with food. Usually at McDonalds, Burger King, Geno’s, Roma Pizza hence we gave ourselves the name “Greaser’s “. Lots of innocent fun.
We played basketball together in high school and I took more than a few of those big elbows. Always joking, always laughing about some mischief he was into. Great guy, wonderful poet with a huge heart for his fellow man. See ya in the next life bro!
Michael Tyler
left a message on May 30, 2025:
Well Ed you were a great neighbor, friend and smart guy. I remember when we bought a wood stove for our old house. it was delivered to the front walk but it had to go up a few steps to get it into our house. You ingeniously figured how to get it up and in. I could never have done the job myself. We shared gardening ideas and you came to me and Chickie Miller to get wise how-to-plant tips. We haven't talked for many years but I always think of how you and I exchanged ideas for restoring our historic homes. I hope we can come to the school to celebrate your life. Mike Tyler
Tina Occhilupo
left a message on May 30, 2025:
I met Ed several years ago in the dental office. I was his hygienist, as well as for his family. I always looked forward to his visits. He was always so kind, and always had stories to tell.
I will miss him. I’m glad I got to visit him just a few weeks ago, but sadly I didn’t get there again.
May you rest in peace, Ed. My deepest condolences 💐 to the entire family!
Charles Eick
left a message on May 30, 2025:
Ed certainly held strong beliefs on just about everything. But one thing was for sure, and that was his love for my sister, Laureen. We will remember him from the good times.
Ashley Benson
left a message on May 30, 2025:
I will miss you! Especially listening to all the stories you were always very animated when talking about the grand Opera House, experiences, history, or treasured family memories. I loved getting to see you hold Parker for the first time with Laureen. I watched as you guys fell in love with Parker. My favorite memory is you helping Justin with his Pinewood Derby car. You knew it was more important to let him do it himself . He was so proud of that car and he was so excited that you came. Parker trying to push you around and you tell him I can do it myself. You were so loved and you will be dearly missed.
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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Garrett Arai
left a message on June 8, 2025:
To the family of a lifelong good friend. We were all so very close. Ed will greatly be missed.
Garrett
Tommy Davis
left a message on June 4, 2025:
Ed,
I was very sad to hear of your passing. I knew you were having medical issues but did not realize it was hospice time. I should have called. Emails are just not good enough. Of course, we had about a 54-year gap in time since Dover. I met Ed as a new freshman at Dover Air Force Base High School. We were both service dependents in a life that most would seem strange...definitely different. Not us; it was all we knew! My first memory of Ed was when he invited me over to listen to his Bill Cosby records. Those that have never heard the now old "Noah" Cosby stories are missing out on one of the funniest yarns in comedy - Noah: "Me and you, Lord." Please Google this old Bill Cosby hit and know Ed is smiling down as you are laughing. Ed was the Chaplin's kid. And there we were in his living room listing to Cosby tell a biblical tale. Little did we know the times we spent together at Dover AFB High School were really some of the best times. The Bowling Alley! Nuff said. I really hated leaving right before my Senior year and losing contact with you and many more at Dover. But it was a real blessing to connect after the recent DAFB HS reunion via telephone. Thank you, Connie! It was one of the best conversations in my life. Who would have thought Mike (Foldy) was still alive and doing well? Ed, please watch over us from above. I believe we will all be together in the future. I can tell from the many posting that you continued to make a difference with many after high school. Till later...
Mike Foldy
left a message on June 2, 2025:
My condolences to Laureen, to Ed’s sons, and to his extended family and friends.
Where to start the memories? what is fit to print?: dear Ed, wild man, my best friend in high school, preacher’s kid (PK), (who knew where the chapel wine was kept), Jokester, instigator, and mischief maker extraordinare, all around nice guy, early fan of TV wrestling (wrasslin’), a techie before there was tech, a man of diverse interests, incredible energy, and a real force of nature in his own inimitable mode, a fellow inventor of fake languages, fellow lumberjack and fellow “Greaser,” (thanks for explaining, Jim!), fellow boycotter of the senior prom, and in sum, the most entertaining guy you’d ever want to hang out with. Never a dull moment with Ed. We will all miss you, buddy! School was a blast for us then, but that’s it’s own story. After school our gang of friends hung out most nights at the DAFB bowling alley, rarely, if ever? bowling, as I remember, but most often gabbing away and then venturing out, packed in multiple cars, cruising the strips of Dover for fast food and speeding through the rural roads of the local backwater sticks looking for anything that might be fun or at least diverting. It was mostly just a lot of horsing around and fast driving, but it was our own late 60s version of American Graffiti. We were all pretty innocent and unserious then. In retrospect, it was a grand old time, and Ed is a key part of my memories of that time.
Rick Celia
left a message on June 1, 2025:
I met Ed at the Old Buggy Tavern and was sorry I did not get his number. Later, I met Ed and Laureen at an ABATE party. It was a friendship I sorely missed later on, when I moved to Michigan. Ed was such a good friend to Bob Mazetti, especially when Bob's son died. I thought of us as the Zen Biker Trio. Three very different people with a common bond. Ed had a sense of humor and intelligence few people have. His kindness was even bigger then he was. GodSpeed mi Amigo!
Ron Carney
left a message on May 31, 2025:
He lived an interesting and special life. I’m honored to have met him!!
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Debbie and Noah Antoine
left a message on May 31, 2025:
Ed / Mr. Benson you are someone Noah and I will never forget . Your kindness was so comforting when we moved next door to you and Loreen.
When you came over in your wheelchair to hang a bird house for Noah when we moved in ( he was 7) well that was something both of us will never forget. So many Blue birds are thankful for sure!
We have quite a few memories and will cherish them. You and Loreen are the best neighbors and we are blessed.
I know you are in a better place now at peace.
Love Debbie & Noah.
Jim King
left a message on May 31, 2025:
Ed was a part of a group of guys in high school who like to go out and stuff our faces with food. Usually at McDonalds, Burger King, Geno’s, Roma Pizza hence we gave ourselves the name “Greaser’s “. Lots of innocent fun.
We played basketball together in high school and I took more than a few of those big elbows. Always joking, always laughing about some mischief he was into. Great guy, wonderful poet with a huge heart for his fellow man. See ya in the next life bro!
Michael Tyler
left a message on May 30, 2025:
Well Ed you were a great neighbor, friend and smart guy. I remember when we bought a wood stove for our old house. it was delivered to the front walk but it had to go up a few steps to get it into our house. You ingeniously figured how to get it up and in. I could never have done the job myself. We shared gardening ideas and you came to me and Chickie Miller to get wise how-to-plant tips. We haven't talked for many years but I always think of how you and I exchanged ideas for restoring our historic homes. I hope we can come to the school to celebrate your life. Mike Tyler
Tina Occhilupo
left a message on May 30, 2025:
I met Ed several years ago in the dental office. I was his hygienist, as well as for his family. I always looked forward to his visits. He was always so kind, and always had stories to tell.
I will miss him. I’m glad I got to visit him just a few weeks ago, but sadly I didn’t get there again.
May you rest in peace, Ed. My deepest condolences 💐 to the entire family!
Charles Eick
left a message on May 30, 2025:
Ed certainly held strong beliefs on just about everything. But one thing was for sure, and that was his love for my sister, Laureen. We will remember him from the good times.
Ashley Benson
left a message on May 30, 2025:
I will miss you! Especially listening to all the stories you were always very animated when talking about the grand Opera House, experiences, history, or treasured family memories. I loved getting to see you hold Parker for the first time with Laureen. I watched as you guys fell in love with Parker. My favorite memory is you helping Justin with his Pinewood Derby car. You knew it was more important to let him do it himself . He was so proud of that car and he was so excited that you came. Parker trying to push you around and you tell him I can do it myself. You were so loved and you will be dearly missed.
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.