Edward Bentsen

Edward R. 'Ted' Bentsen, 82, of Bigelow Hollow Rd., Union, CT, passed away on Friday, December 8, 2006 at Harrington Memorial Hospital, Southbridge, MA. He was born in Providence, RI, son of the late Bent and Pauline (Siegel) Bentsen. Ted served his country as a member of the U.S Coast Guard in World War II on the USS Peterson on convoy duty in the Atlantic Ocean. He graduated from the Rhode Island School of Design with a degree in textile engineering. Ted held many positions in the textile field, such as managing textile plants in Tennessee, New Jersey, and Rhode Island, as well as designing intricate lace patterns. In his later years, he relocated to Connecticut where he worked as a plant manager at the Stafford Printers. Later he ran his own business, manufacturing fish nets and lobster pots. Ted loved the ocean, boats, and spent much time salt water fishing when he lived in Rhode Island. He was a skilled wood craftsman, refinishing boats and furniture. He also loved country western music. Most of all he enjoyed family gatherings and joking with his grandchildren. He had a great sense of humor. Ted is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Barbara M. Bentsen of Union, CT; five children and their spouses, Deborah and Anthony Campbell of New York, Mark and Lori Bentsen of Massachusetts, Diane and William Forbes of New York, Carl Bentsen and Susan Horwitz of New York, and Todd and Sheri Bentsen of Union, CT; 11 grandchildren, Alison, Laura, Sean, Sarah, William, Binh, Tay, Megan, Aaron, Carli, and Brandon; two great grandchildren, Patrick and Gabriela; a sister-in-law, Virginia Arnold of New York; and many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his identical twin brother, Paul E. Bentsen; and a granddaughter, Leah Mae Bentsen. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, December 12, 2006 at 2 P.M. at Introvigne Funeral Home, Inc., 51 East Main St., Stafford Springs, CT. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family. Calling hours are on Monday from 5-8 P.M. at the funeral home. Memorial donations may be made to the American Lung Association, 45 Ash St., East Hartford, CT 06108. For online condolences, please visit: www.introvignefuneralhome.com

Edward Bentsen

April 29, 1924 - December 8, 2006