Aileen Benson
It was a day of flowers, friends, family, fun, and food at the March 9 Second Sunday potluck where the LVA honored long-time resident Aileen Benson for her many years of service to the community. After lunch and introductory comments by LVA Chair Debbie Howells, Linda Suttman shared a brief overview of Aileen’s life. Others also took turns at the mic to express how much Eileen means to them.
Linda told us that Aileen (born Mary Aileen Effinger) began playing the violin in the 3rd grade. As a student at Philadelphia’s West Catholic Girls High School, she participated in the Classical Orchestra and worked variously at the 5 & Dime, Woolworths, and the U.S. Mint in addition to her studies. She later married Bob Benson and had 5 children - Connie, Louise, Robert, Patty, and Daniel. She worked as a nursery school aid and in a department store accounting department while the children were in school.
Aileen retired after 14 years as a medical secretary for a pediatric ophthalmologist. She learned about Lanark Village from her neighbors, Alice and Ray Courage. She and Bob visited the Village and liked what they saw. They bought a house and settled in 33 years ago and soon became vital members of the community.
Aileen served in the LVA in various capacities - as Ways and Means, Vice President, President pro tem, and Membership Chair. She opened the Hall for coffee and worked on puzzles with the women while the men sat at the opposite end of the table. Eileen promoted the idea that men and women should sit together during coffee hour, and today, that’s what we do. She was ahead of her time! She also played with the Lanark Scottish Fiddlers and enjoyed other creative talents such as needlepoint, painting, and crocheting.
It was an honor for all of us to be part of the celebration and to recognize Aileen’s accomplishments. She is a beloved neighbor and friend.
Attendees were especially touched by a note sent from Nola’s granddaughter and read by Mel. It read:
I just want to take a moment to celebrate someone truly special - Miss Aileen. At 97 years young, she’s one of the kindest, smartest, and most wonderful people I know. We share a love for cats, and I think that says a lot about her - gentle, independent, and always full of warmth. And when it comes to puzzles, well, she’s always a few steps ahead of me! Her patience and sharp mind inspire me every day. Miss Aileen, you are an incredible person, and I’m so lucky to know you. Wishing you a day filled with love, laughter, and maybe a cat or two curled up beside you.
Love, Ava
