[Ohio-Talk] Steve Benson has died

[Barbara Pierce]

Many of you knew Steve Benson. He was a national board member for many years, and he was Ohio’s national rep several times. We have remained friends through the years, but I had not heard this news until Ronsa Ofman wrote the following message.

I am so incredibly sad to share that Stephen O Benson died Sunday morning, March 22, 2020 at 7:26AM after a long illness.  He leaves behind his wife Peg, son Patrick, who many of you likely know, and hundreds of family and friends.  Steve served as President of the National Federation of the Blind of Illinois for over 20 years.  In addition, he dedicated his life to service by ensuring access to information and protecting the civil rights of the blind in numerous ways including by having a distinguished career with the Chicago Public Library.  Services will take place today at 9:30AM where a brief wake Will occur followed by internment at Queen of Heaven Cemetery, just beyond Chicago’s west side. Steve’s last 13 years were distinguished by much medical care and disruption, but the only thing he complained about was not being able to just walk out the door with his white cane and travel independently. He will be deeply missed.

Barbara Pierce, President Emerita
National Federation of the Blind of Ohio
Barbara.pierce9366 at gmail.com
440-774-8077
 

The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise expectations for blind people because low expectations create obstacles between blind people and their dreams. You can live the life you want; blindness is not what holds you back.