Dudley : Thomas A. Benson, 59, passed away on Saturday, July 23 ^rd , in the UMass Memorial Medical Center, University Campus, Worcester, after a long illness.

He leaves his beloved wife of 34 years, Sally Jo (Ohop) Benson; his son, John L. Benson, III, of Southbridge; his mother, Florence (LeReau) Benson of Framingham; his grandson, John L. Benson, IV; his two sisters, Judy Tedeschi and Ellen Stanikmas; his brother, John "Chipper" Benson; his son John's mother, Patricia Marino of Southbridge; and many nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by two brothers, Steve Benson and David Benson.  Thomas was born in Southbridge the son of the late John L. Benson.

Tom was an arborist and worked for Bartlett Tree service for many years along with running his own tree service.  He previously worked for R. LaFleche Logging.  Tom loved anything to do with nature; trees, bird watching, his dogs, and trees.  He also loved motorcycles, cars, trucks, chainsaws – anything with a motor in it!  He loved the ocean and absolutely loved "the Farm" which is what he called his home.  Although not a working farm any longer he absolutely loved it.  His lifelong dream, which he did was not able to get to do, was to go see the redwood trees and the Grand Canyon.

Tom was a loving passionate man and loved his family above all else - he loved his mother more than life itself and he loved his wife Sally with all his heart and unconditionally.

Tom's funeral services will be private.  There are no calling hours.

The Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge, is directing arrangements.