OBIT:: David BENSON, 1900, Altoona, Blair County, PA Contributed for use in the USGenWeb Archives by Judy Banja Copyright 2007. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://www.usgwarchives.net/pa/blair/ _________________________________________ David Benson, an old and well known resident of Altoona, was found dead in bed at his home, in that city Sunday morning. Paralysis or apoplexy is supposed to have caused his demise. He had not been in good health for some time past on account of his advanced years, but he was apparently as well as usual on Saturday night when he retired. Tyrone Daily Herald, February 26, 1900 FOUND DEAD IN BED. David Benson, an Aged and Respected Resident of East End. THE DISCOVERY MADE YESTERDAY. Either Paralysis or Apoplexy the Cause. Coroner McCartney Was Called by No Inquest Will be Held by Him. David Benson, an aged and respected resident of this city, was found dead in his bed at his home on Harrison avenue, East End, at 7 o'clock yesterday morning by members of his son's family, with whom he resided. Death was due to either paralysis or apoplexy. Coroner McCartney was called and after hearing the statement of Dr. Kephart, decided an inquest unnecessary, as death was due to natural causes. Deceased had been in failing health for several weeks. David Benson was born in the parish of Pomeroy, county Tyrone, Ireland, July 11, 1825. He came to America when 16 years of age. For a number of years he engaged in farming in Sinking Valley and also was employed in the Pennsylvania railroad shops until eight years ago. Since then he had lived a retired life. He was married about forty-six years ago to Miss Bridget Magee and to them were born twelve children. His wife and four children preceded him to the grave. The following children survive: William, Elizabeth, Jennie, Sadie, of Altoona; David, of Illinois; Annie, Alice and John, of Homestead. Also thirteen grandchildren. He was a member of the Odd Fellows, Mystic Chain, Knights of Pythias, and Grand Army of the Republic. The funeral announcement will be made later. Morning Tribune, Monday, February 26, 1900 LOCAL BREVITIES. The funeral of David Benson will take place this afternoon. The cortege will leave the residence of his son-in-law, George Ehredt, 609 third avenue, at 2 o'clock and proceed to St. Luke's Protestant Episcopal church where services will be held. Interment in Fairview cemetery. Morning Tribune, Tuesday, February 27, 1900