Robert Charles Benson

Robert C. Benson, 83, of Geneseo, passed peacefully on Monday, April 6, 2026, at OSF – St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria, with his family by his side.  A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at First Lutheran Church, Geneseo.  Reverend Laura Kamprath will officiate.  Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Geneseo.  Visitation will be held from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Monday, April 13, 2026, at Vandemore Funeral Home – Geneseo Chapel.  Memorials may be directed to First Lutheran Church, 114 E. Main Street, Geneseo, IL, 61254, and the Geneseo Art League, 125 N. State Street, Geneseo, IL, 61254.

Bob was born on November 5, 1942, in Geneseo, the son of C. Bernard and Katherine (Anderson) Benson.  He married Katharine “Kathie” Beck on June 12, 1966, in Lexington, IL. 

Bob was a graduate of Geneseo High School, class of 1960. After completing Moline Community College, he obtained his BS in education from Western Illinois University and his MS in education from Illinois State University. He received his administrative certification and specialist degree from Western Illinois University.

He was employed by the Moline School District #40 in 1965. Bob spent his 45-year career with the district at Wilson Jr. High/Middle School.  He taught industrial arts, science, and coached track and football until 1988, when he became assistant principal.  He became principal in 2005 and retired in 2010.

Following his retirement, he enjoyed working in his yard, tending his garden, and growing popcorn.  Bob was an accomplished woodworker, making beautiful projects.  He was an avid walker.

He was a member of First Lutheran Church, the Quad Cities Woodturners, Geneseo Moose, the Geneseo Art League – where he served as treasurer, and the Antique Engine and Tractor Association.

Bob was a man of integrity and kindness.  His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the memories he helped create.  He was loyal to those he loved: his family, his friends, and his school family.  Bob will be greatly missed and forever remembered.

Robert was survived by his loving wife, Katharine “Kathie” Benson, and son, Doctor Jeffrey Benson. 

He was preceded by his parents, C. Bernard and Katherine Benson, and sister, Janice Martin.