Gerald J. Benes, of Chalfont, PA died on Thursday, December 2, 2010, at Heritage Towers. He was 91.
He was the beloved husband of Elizabeth Neimann Benes.
Born on March 29, 1919 in Brooklyn, New York, he was the son of the late Jeremiah and Nora Callahan Benes.
Gerald grew up in Brooklyn and Queens, New York, and on July 1, 1942 was appointed to the Fire Department. Then on October 6, 1942 he married his beloved Elizabeth before entering the US Army on November 30 of that year.
After serving his country in the Century (100) Infantry Division, Gerald was honorably discharged from the Army, only to return to duty, with the Fire Department of New York. For over 30 years he served the Fire Department, where he was a faithful member of the Uniformed Fire Fighters Association, the Uniformed Fire Officers Association, and the Holy Name Society. He retired on July 5, 1976 as a Deputy Chief and soon after relocated to Clearwater, FL with his wife. Then in 2003 they moved to Bucks County, where they were closer to their grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
In addition to his wife, he is also survived by his sons Gerald B. Benes, Barry B. Benes and his wife Rosemary, and Kevin J. Benes and his wife Lynn. He is also survived by his 7 grandchildren Kevin and wife Christine, Shannon and husband Richard Postiglione, Gregory and wife Joyce, Christopher and wife Angela, Matthew, Lauren and husband Stephen Cohen, and Ryan and 2 great grandchildren Brian and Kimberly. He was predeceased by his 2 sisters Helen Jones and Barbara O'Lena.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Graveside Service at 2:30 pm on Monday, December 6, 2010 at the Washington Crossing National Cemetery, 830 Highland Road, Newtown, PA 18940.
In lieu of flowers contributions in his memory may be made to Alzheimer's Association, Delaware Valley Chapter, 399 Market Street, Suite 102, Philadelphia, PA 19106.