David Gerard Benson

In Loving Memory of David "POP" Benson Born in Massapequa, New York on December 30, 1932, Pop left this world peacefully on Tuesday, April 26, 2011, in the loving embrace of his family at the age of 78. He is survived by Elizabeth, his precious wife and best friend of 58 years, and their 9 children; David, Kevin, Jackie, Russell, Glenn, Danny, BettyAnn, Michael and Robert. They were blessed with 36 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. He was very much a father figure to his Son-In-Law and 7 Daughter-In-Laws, Kate, Candy, Marie, Renee, Arleen, Melissa, and Angela. Matt, his only daughter's husband, who grew up next door to the Benson's, was like a son to him. Pop had many friends at any church he attended, especially the Upper Room Tabernacle, in Deer Park, L.I., New York, which he helped build both physically and spiritually. After moving to Altamonte Springs, Florida in 2008, he attended The Masters Touch Church in Longwood, Florida where he worshiped regularly. As many of you know, "Pop" was an artful card shark. He enjoyed the competitiveness of any card game, and quickly became a favorite with the Orlando Hold'Em circuit. He made many, many, many friends playing cards and it was one of his favorite pastimes. We appreciate all the kind wishes from all of you. Pop was a "soldier" and a "hero" to all that knew him. He was officially decorated for his bravery and heroism during his service to the US Army from 1953-1955, post Korean War. He received 2 medals and the Highest US Military declaration for Valor for saving 9 people from a burning bus. A special heartfelt thank-you to all his friends, past and present for all their support and love in this time of sorrow. We will miss his quick wit and sarcasm, but most of all, his warm compassionate heart, and loving spirit. Under that tough exterior, was a soft place to fall for many of us...he was a real man in every sense of the word. We'll miss him forever. God Bless you, POP. The family will be receiving friends, Thursday, April 28, 2011 from 2:00 to 4:00 PM and also from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. A funeral service celebrating the life of David Benson will be held Friday, April 29, 2011 at 10:30 AM at DeGusipe Funeral Home. His interment service will follow at 2:30 PM at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida. Arrangements entrusted to DeGusipe Funeral Home and Crematory, 9001 N Orlando Avenue, Maitland, FL 32751 407-695-CARE (2273). Please visit www.DeGusipeFuneralHome.com to view and leave a special condolence.

David Gerard Benson

December 30, 1932 - April 26, 2011