May 30, 1918-March 7, 2011
An Original Levittown Pioneer
Ken Benson, an original Levittown resident (63 years), passed away on March 7, 2011 from natural causes. He was 92 years old. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army having served in combat in the European Theatre during WWII in the 44th division, 71st infantry regiment. He was a staff sergeant and was awarded the Bronze Star for his bravery. After the war, he, (like many other soldiers) and his family settled down in a new community built specifically for the returning G.Is. This community would eventually be named Levittown. He rented one of the first 2000 homes built on the north side of Hempstead Tpke., west of Jerusalem Ave. He later then bought the house.
Ken was involved with the Levittown Athletic Club for most of his life. First, when it was a co-ed league, coaching his eldest daughter and then when it became a girl’s softball league, coaching his two grandchildren. He was also on the board of directors and ran the concession shed at Azalea Park, which is named after him (Mr. B’s). Throughout his life, he was employed by The United Fruit Co., Maritime Co., and The Nassau County Fire Service Academy.
Ken was still a resident of Levittown when he passed away. He is survived by his wife Gloria; daughters, Barbara De Noto and Bonnie Brennan; grandchildren, Matthew DeNoto, Jillian Brennan Huldie, Victoria DeNoto and Lori Brennan. He is also survived by two great-grandchildren, Madison and Brennan.
