Erik Leigh Benson, 29, of Plainfield Township, PA passed at home on Sunday, May 20, 2018, after a two year battle with leukemia. Even through his struggle Erik remained true to his faith. He was a 2006 graduate of Pen Argyl High School and received his BS in Biomedical Engineering from LeTourneau University in 2010. He was an Assistant Scientist at Azog Labs in Phillipsburg before his illness.
Though only 29 years of age, Erik accumulated a lifetime of stories; his varied interests included league and tournament volleyball, assorted dance disciplines (contra, swing, squares, waltz, blues), young adult Bible studies, and travel (bicycle, motorcycle, car, plane). Board gaming and role playing were also a large part of his life. He achieved the rank of Eagle Scout and participated in numerous service activities as a camp counselor, youth leader and volunteer for other community ministries. He was a member of the Lehigh Valley Grace Church in Bethlehem.
Erik is survived by his parents: Craig Benson and Sharon Trimble with whom he resided; his brother Mark, at home; his grandmother: Helen Trimble of Princeton, NJ; many aunts, uncles and cousins.
A Memorial Service will be held 11 AM Saturday (May 26) at Lehigh Valley Grace Church, 580 Bridle Path Road, Bethlehem.
Contributions in Erik’s memory may be made to Camp Conquest, 480 Forest Road, Denver, PA 17517. Offer online condolences at www.AshtonFuneralHome.com.
Shanti Kengeter
May 24, 2018 at 1:19 am
I met Erik contra dancing in Princeton. When he was on the dance floor the joy bubbling out of him was almost palpable! I loved to watch him frolic so playfully with the other dancers . His smile and his laughter was infectious. He was an exceptionally thoughtful ,kind and whimsically gentle dance partner even to those of us of his parents generation. His height and impish grin reminded me of my own son who is a bit older than he was.My spirit always lifted a bit when I spied him in the dance line up. Thank you for sharing your son, brother, nephew and cousin with our dance family in Princeton. Heartfelt condolences to you all. He shall be missed tremendously but never forgotten. His spirit shall continue to dance among us.
Shanti Kengeter
Cathy Stanley
May 24, 2018 at 6:48 am
Rich and I send our heartfelt condolences at the passing of your son Eric. We met him thru square dancing and enjoyed his enthusiasm as a dancer. May peace of the Lord be with you all.
Iris Gonzalez
May 24, 2018 at 11:24 am
To Erik’s Family…
I am definitely going to miss seeing Erik. He was such a fighter, and definitely fought to the end. I am so sorry for your loss. Your family will be in my prayers. Erik is in a better place where he is no longer suffering.
love,
Iris, Bethlehem PA
Betty Renzulli
May 24, 2018 at 4:21 pm
Sharon and family,
It pains me to think of the hardship you are all going through.
Please except my deepest sympathy for the loss of your dear son Erik.
I remember him well.
Sharon, You and I were both pregnant with our first child together. We had our sons around at the same time and reconnected at the library years later.
My prayers for peace and guidance during this unsettling time when God brings his precious souls back to his side.
My Condolences
Betty Renzulli
Nancy Butz
May 25, 2018 at 1:28 pm
Sharon and family,
I remember Erik when he was just a toddler when I delivered your mail on McCartney St. Even then he was a little whippersnap full of energy.
I am so sorry for your loss. I pray that he didn’t suffer in too much pain.
Billy Rambo Goodwin
May 25, 2018 at 4:29 pm
Erik’s family,
Erik or Gumby as I know him as at Letu was one of the nicest, always willing to help guys I have ever met. I am sorry the hear about Erik and it was an honor knowing him. From all the Flooders, he will be missed and we all know where he is now. God definitely welcomed one of his children home on the 20th.
Angela
May 25, 2018 at 5:09 pm
You have my deepest sympathy for your loss and my heart goes out to your entire family. One day death will be undone and you will embrace Erik again under better conditions. Acts 24:15 & Psalms 37:11,29. I hope these words will bring you a measure of comfort. Wishing you peace at this time.
Biff
May 25, 2018 at 5:50 pm
Hey Gumby, hard to believe you aren’t with us anymore. Last time we hung out we were pranking the school together at graduation. If I remember right, they suspended you and Flout for a week and fined you both, lol. But you didn’t give up anyone else, you took it all as if it was all your idea. I have always respected your courage and integrity. You are a true Flooder, and I have always been proud to call you brother. I look forward to seeing you again in glory; try not to have too much fun without the rest of us. We’ll see you soon. Love you bro.
Mr and Mrs Benson, your son was a good man, and I was blessed to know him.
Jan and Fran
May 26, 2018 at 9:37 am
He was taken way to soon. I know you did everything possible to help him through this awful last two years. Know he is still with you in spirit and is dancing with our departed in heaven.
Peace be with you in the coming weeks while you adjust to the hole he left in your heart.
Sharon Ammirati
May 28, 2018 at 11:09 am
Mark, Sharon and Craig, I remember Erik dancing so happily at Sylvia’s wedding. He was do surprised and thrilled to be able to unexpectedly Contra Dance in California. That is how I will always remember him. Laughing and spinning. Thinking of you, praying with you, and sending heartfelt love from me, from Sylvia and from Laura across the miles from California.
Sharon