Longtime Galesburg Bookkeeper Ann Marie Benson Dies at 80

Benson worked for Alexander Lumber Company for 37 years before retiring.

Mar. 18, 2026 at 1:00am

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Ann Marie Benson, a longtime bookkeeper and advertising manager at Alexander Lumber Company's Galesburg district, passed away unexpectedly at her home in Wataga, Illinois at the age of 80. Benson had been married to her husband Roger for 58 years and was a member of the Congregational Church.

Why it matters

Benson's passing marks the end of an era for the Galesburg community, as she was a fixture at Alexander Lumber Company for nearly four decades. Her dedication to her work and her community will be missed.

The details

Benson worked as a bookkeeper and advertising manager at Alexander Lumber Company's Galesburg district for 37 years before retiring. She graduated from Brown Business College in 1967 and previously worked at Lindstrom's TV. Benson was known for her love of cooking, reading, and traveling, as well as the time she spent with her husband and family.

  • Ann Marie Benson passed away on March 14, 2026 at her home in Wataga, Illinois.
  • Benson was born on February 22, 1946 in Galesburg, Illinois.
  • Benson married her husband Roger on June 3, 1967 in Cameron, Illinois.

The players

Ann Marie Benson

An 80-year-old resident of Wataga, Illinois who worked as a bookkeeper and advertising manager at Alexander Lumber Company's Galesburg district for 37 years before retiring.

Roger H. Benson

Ann Marie Benson's husband of 58 years.

Leroy and Betty Jane (Linder) Armstrong

Ann Marie Benson's parents.

Larry (Kathy) Armstrong and Jim Armstrong

Ann Marie Benson's brothers.

Dan (Bree) Benson and Jon Benson

Ann Marie Benson's two sons.

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The takeaway

Ann Marie Benson's passing marks the end of an era for the Galesburg community, as she was a dedicated employee at Alexander Lumber Company for nearly four decades. Her commitment to her work and her community will be remembered fondly by those who knew her.