Raymond A. Benson

Raymond A. Benson, 93, of Montgomery, died Saturday, September 25, 2021 at Seasons Hospice in Naperville.  Ray was born in Aurora on September 17, 1928, attended West Aurora High School and graduated from the University Of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana in 1956.  Prior to receiving his degree, he served in the Korean conflict while stationed in Japan.  He married Elizabeth Wright on November 9, 1951.  Ray was a longtime employee of Caterpillar, retiring from their Joliet facility in 1987.

Ray enjoyed photography, art, music and was an avid reader.  He was a member of the Art Institute of Chicago and donor to the Ravinia Music Festival.  He was also an enthusiastic supporter of the U of I football team and a long-time season ticket holder.  Each year he and Elizabeth would look forward to trips to Door County.   

Ray is survived by his wife of 70 years, Elizabeth, and their five children: Steve (Cynthia) Benson, Nancy (Rick) Smathers, Linda Gruetzmacher, Tom (Patti) Benson, and Dave Benson.  He is also survived by nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Frances Benson, his brother John Benson and a daughter-in-law, Diane Benson. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of your choice.

Family will be receiving guests on Sunday, October 3, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. at Dieterle Memorial Home. A memorial service will follow visitation on Sunday, October 3, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. also at Dieterle Memorial Home.