Albert V. “Ben” Bensen, 94, of Damariscotta, died Aug. 27 after a short stay at Miles Memorial Hospital. He was born Sept. 16, 1917 in New York City, son of Albert and Marion Bensen. He grew up in New Canaan, Conn., and graduated from Deerfield Academy and Williams College. He enlisted in the U.S. Cavalry in 1940 and completed his service in 1945 as a 1st Lieutenant in the 106th Reconnaissance Group. He saw action in France, Germany and Austria and his decorations included the Bronze Star, Croix de Guerre with Palm and European Operations Ribbon with four Battle Stars.
Shortly after being discharged from the Army he married the love of his life, Barbara Martin, in January 1946. He remained a devoted, loving and kind husband until his death.
After earning an M.A. from Columbia University he began a long and very successful teaching and coaching career, first at The Punahoe School in Honolulu, Hawaii where he worked for three years and then at the New Canaan Country School until his retirement in 1979. At that point he and Bar moved to Damariscotta where they became actively involved in the community and made many wonderful new friends. He was a longtime driver for Meals on Wheels, a volunteer at The Skidompha Secondhand Book Shop and vestry member and senior warden of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church. He was a long time board member of Camp Agawam in Raymond and also served on the Schooner Cove Advisory Council.
Ben was a conscientious, thoughtful, outgoing, gentle and optimistic man who saw the world in a very positive light. He had clear opinions that he was happy to share with a smile and good humor. He took great pleasure in his children, grandchildren and one great-grandson.
He is survived by his wife Barbara; children, Gary and wife Rosie of Newcastle, Dick and wife Pam of Deerfield, Mass., Alison and husband Philippe Terreaux of Virieu, France and Tom and wife Susan of Missoula, Mont.; nine grandchildren; one great-grandson; brother, Bob of Sandpoint, Ida; and many friends including his caregivers at Miles Memorial Hospital.
Memorial service 2:30 p.m., Sat., Sept. 1 at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Newcastle.
Memorial donations may be made to St. Andrew’s Church, 11 Glidden St., Newcastle, ME 04553 or the charity of your choice.
