In Memory of

B.

Allan

Benson

Obituary for B. Allan Benson

B. Allan Benson died unexpectedly December 23rd, 2017, in his home in Prospect Harbor, ME. He was born April 13th, 1948, in Detroit, MI, the son of Bertil Axel Benson and Geraldine Adams. Allan is survived by his adored wife, Nancy J. Hill; their son and love of their lives, Anders W. Benson (Mariana); beloved sister Beverly Benson Wolf (David); 2 nephews, 3 nieces, and their families.

Allan graduated from Pontiac Northern High School, class of 1966. In 1970 he graduated from Michigan State University and remained an avid supporter throughout his life. While working full time for the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) Allan earned his Juris Doctor degree from Lewis and Clarke School of Law.

Allan was a tireless public servant as he pursued federal labor law with the NLRB, and attained the position of Deputy Assistant General Council in Washington, DC. In 2003, he was chosen from a small group of career Senior Executives with exceptional long-term accomplishments as a Presidential Rank Award winner. This award recognizes strong leaders from throughout the federal government who achieve results and consistently demonstrate strength, integrity, and a relentless commitment to excellence in public service. At the time of his retirement from the NLRB he was the Regional Director in the Denver, CO office.

Allan enjoyed tutoring students, traveling, creating pottery, skiing, tennis, and gathering with friends and family. Having been married previously, Allan found his Ideal life partner in Nancy. They were married in Washington, D.C., and January 2018 will mark their 30th wedding anniversary. While Nancy had a career in fashion design, Allan encouraged her to follow her passion for painting, and with his unswerving support she has become a working artist as an oil painter. Their son Anders is passionate about all facets of culinary and music, and is a culinary teacher. He married his Cornell University sweetheart, Mariana L. Mendez.

In his retirement in ME Allan became a dedicated community member. He participated in and lead volunteer projects for the Monteux School and Music Festival in Hancock; he was a coordinator of volunteers and a board member at the Dorcas Library in Prospect Harbor; and he gave clear and enthusiastic focus to the newly created Gouldsboro Town Park centered in Prospect Harbor. Allan designed the pavilion that was built on land bequeathed to the town of Gouldsboro by Jeremy Strater. Thoughtfully integrating Jeremy’s spirit of community, Allan’s passion for the project was infectious as he helped involve the talent and energy of many skilled community members. His integrity, altruism, and love of people were widely appreciated. His joyful presence, sense of humor, and optimism will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Allan’s life will be celebrated formally in the future. Gifts in his memory are welcome by the Monteux School and Music Festival, PO Box 457, Hancock, ME 04640 (for young talented musicians and conductors from around the world); or by the Maine Community Foundation, 245 Main St., Ellsworth, ME 04605 (noted specifically for The Schoodic Community Fund). Or Allan’s life can be honored by a donation to another appropriate charitable organization.

Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com.