ARLENE BENSON HARDY

PRESQUE ISLE -

Arlene Hardy, passed away Thursday, Aug. 18, 2011, at home after a long and gracious life.

She was born Nov. 10, 1924, in Presque Isle, to George and Edith Benson. She graduated from Presque Isle High School, Class of 1942. She was a homemaker and later in life served for the board of voter registration for a number of years.

Arlene enjoyed spending time with family and friends, long walks, watching local and professional sports, and knitting beautiful sweaters. She was a lifelong member of Grant Memorial Methodist Church and very proud of her 70 plus years of membership. She loved living in Aroostook County on Cedar Street, Presque Isle.

Arlene is survived by sons, Dana and his wife, Elizabeth, of Port St. Lucie, Fla., Malcolm and partner, Vanessa, of Bryan, Texas, Stephen and his wife, Joyce, of Holden, and Andrew and his wife, Leanne, of Bowdoin; eight grandchildren, Sarah and husband, Rene, Aimee and husband, Marshall, Jessie and husband, Brett, Jodi and husband, Chad, Brooke, Breanna, Meredith and Hunter; and six great-grandchildren. She is survived by one aunt, Hazel Hall of Ashland; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was predeceased by husband, Dana Sr.; and brother, Russell Benson. The family thanks Linda Swett, Dick and Lenna Woods, Bruce and Amy Wilkens, and the many friends from Grant Memorial Methodist Church for providing wonderful companionship and support.

Friends may call 7-8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 23, at Duncan-Graves Funeral Home, 30 Church St., Presque Isle. Funeral services will be conducted 11 a.m. Wednesday at Grant Memorial Methodist Church with the Rev. Ronald Chaffee officiating. After the service there will be a time of fellowship at the church. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Horizon Aroostook Cancer Care, 140 Academy St., Presque Isle, ME 04769 or Hospice of Aroostook, P.O. 931, Bangor, ME 04402.

Published in Bangor Daily News on August 19, 2011