Are You in Jack Benson's Prayer Book?

The seventh of nine children, Jack Benson was born October 22, 1918 in Lenox, Iowa.  His father died when he was seven and his mother raised the children with the support his elder brothers. In 1933, two of his older brothers moved him and his two younger siblings to Hollywood, California, where he finished high school and graduated from Fairfax High School in 1936. 

He met his wife, Carmen, April, 1, 1938, on a blind date and they were married the following year in March, a week after her 18th birthday. They were married 61 years until her death in 2000. 

A World War II veteran, stationed in France and Germany, Jack proudly served in the Army as a Supply Sergeant with the 70th Infantry Division. His unit stopped the German SS Troops in Saarbrucken, Germany, one of the key turning points in the war being fought in Europe.

After the war, he and his wife settled in South Gate, California.  In the late 50s, he owned a grocery store in South Gate and, later, Benson’s Market in Downey.  He retired and moved to Casta del Sol in Mission Viejo to be close to his daughter and family after his wife’s death. He is currently living in Laguna Hills.

"He’s a great man and still active today," grandson Steve Concialdi said. "He’s a WWII veteran and a wonderful person who still says daily, 'This is the best day of my life.' He has a large prayer book and every night he prays for his family and many others who have asked to be included in his 'prayer book.'"

Jack has one daughter, three grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren.

This commemoration was sent in by Patch reader Steve Concialdi. Do you want to recognize your loved-one? Send an email to Patch editor Pete Schelden telling him why you think your family member deserves special recognition: peter.schelden@patch.com.