HAMPDEN – Katherine M. Benson, 62, passed away peacefully April 2, 2007. She was comfortable and happily at her home in Hampden, surrounded by her loving family, as she wished. Kathie was born Jan. 9, 1945, in Lowell, Mass., the only child of Raymond and Marion Ball. With a positive attitude and love of life, she fought her 13-year battle with breast cancer with unbelievable strength and dignity. Heaven has gained an inspirational, beautiful soul. After graduating from Keith Hall in 1962, Kathie worked at St. Joseph Hospital. She then began her most fulfilling career of raising three daughters. She eventually moved to Ashland. It was there that she learned how to grow vegetables and flowers. Canning, freezing, farming, cooking and sewing were new adventures that she enjoyed her entire life, including running a vegetable stand at home. She was very proud of the fact that she was the first woman to be employed by Pinkham Lumber for six years. Other adventures lead her to Barnstead, N.H., in 1987. She worked five years as a seamstress for Concord State Hospital, as well as eight years at Wiley Enterprises. She enjoyed working with the public. Weekends were spent at her vegetable stand in the sun on Lake Winnipesaukee. After moving to Bangor in 1995, Kathie received many awards while working as an account specialist for MBNA, and was frequently a member of the Captains Club. For the last 12 years, Kathie resided in Hampden with her husband, David. David and Kathie enjoyed each other with an indescribable love and companionship that was created to last a lifetime and beyond. Always planning for their future and smiling about the past. Kathie and David enjoyed traveling to Florida, Aruba and Ireland. Some of her most enjoyable moments were spent with her family and grandchildren, whom she loved dearly. Surviving are her husband, David; daughters, Robin Anthony and husband, Kenny, of Florida, Shelley and Glen Claflin of New Hampshire, and Becky and Gene Caron of Glenburn; grandchildren, Brandi Anthony, Jeffrey Belanger and Lydia Caron; extended family, the Rev. Howard and Eva Benson, Karen and Tom Snappe, Kathie Benson, Donna McMahon, Tim Benson, nieces, nephews, and special friends; special cousins, Bette Ann, Al, Marion and Jackie; and furry friends, Sam and Duncan. She was predeceased by her parents; husband, Stephen Hews; and a grandson, Micheal Nicholas Gibbons. Katherine’s family thanks CancerCare of Maine and New Hope Hospice for the comfort and care they gave to her and them during her illness. Family and friends are invited to call 6-8 p.m. Thursday at Hampden-Gilpatrick Funeral Home, 45 Western Ave., Hampden. A funeral service will be held 3 p.m. Friday at First United Methodist Church of Brewer, with the Rev. Dr. George E. Curtis, III, pastor, officiating. Interment will be later in the springtime at Cowan Cemetery, Sidney. Messages of condolence or memories may be shared through www.hampdengilpatrick.com
KATHERINE M. BENSON
