Francis John "Buddy" Benson age 78 of Celina, Ohio and formerly of Groveport, Ohio passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 2, 2026 at the Celina Manor Nursing Home in Celina, Ohio. He was born the son of the late Floyd George "Pete" and Mary Elizabeth (Muczynski) Benson in Erie, Pennsylvania on November 19, 1947. On December 23, 1972 he married Mary Jane Stein, who survives living in Celina. He is also survived by his two daughters; Michelle (Robert "Bobby") Walter of Celina, Stephanie Benson of Columbus, two grandchildren Brayden Porter and Blake Porter both of Celina, step grandson Leo Walter of Fort Recovery and his brother Floyd "Sonny" Benson of Erie, PA.

In addition to his parents Francis is preceded in death by his sister-in-law Maryann Benson.

He graduated from Erie High School with the Class of 1965 and proudly served his country in the United State Air Force at the Lockbourne Air Force Base in Columbus, Ohio until 1973. Francis was a member of the Groveport Zion Lutheran Church. He loved to golf and go bowling in his younger years, had a passion for everything Neil Diamond. His huge heart had a special place for dogs and rescuing them. He will be remembered for his Jokes and always rooting for the underdog. His family meant the world to him. He cherished his wife, Mary Jane, and his two daughters, Michelle and Stephanie. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, August 6th , 2026 at the Lehman-Dzendzel Funeral Home in Celina, with Rev. Quentin Elsea officiating. Military Honors will be performed by the Celina American Legion Post #210 and the Celina V. F. W. Post #5713 following services at the Lehman-Dzendzel Funeral Home on Thursday. Burial will be at a later date in the Mercer Memory Gardens Cemetery in Celina. Family and Friends may call from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday and an hour before services on Thursday at the Lehman-Dzendzel Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association or the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. Condolences may be shared with the Benson Family on-line at LehmanDzendzelFH.com.