In Loving Memory of William Patrick Bruce Benson
It is with much sadness that we have to report that a legend in his time, William Patrick Bruce Benson, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday evening. Initially a playing member of the former Napier Marist Rugby Club, Pat was instrumental in the success of Napier Marist and in later years, as a coach and mentor for Napier Old Boys Marist.
Another of Pat’s interests was his extensive involvement with surf lifesaving with the Ocean Beach Kiwi Club. The former national marathon swimming champion achieved the ultimate on the February 24, 1979 when he clinched the Air New Zealand national marathon swimming series when he successfully completed the Cook Strait north to south crossing in a 10 hours 18 minutes.
Pat Benson’s quiet, unassuming manner and generosity to causes he was involved in will be sadly missed, as well as his business experience and as a pioneer in the New Zealand software industry. Pat was a proud member of Napier’s Art Deco Trust and has been actively working to preserve, restore and enhance Art Deco landmarks in Napier city.
To the Benson family, Mary and children David, Willy, Paul, Clair and Chris, Napier Old Boys Marist members extend our deepest sympathy at your sad and sudden loss of a loved husband and father.
Funeral Event Information
Date: Friday, February 16th
Time: 11:00 AM
Location: Centennial Hall
Address: 40 Latham Street, Napier
We gather to honor the life and legacy of William Patrick Bruce Benson. For those unable to attend in person, a live stream of the service will be available via the following link:
https://vimeo.com/event/4089227/fef562d43c
To share memories, condolences, and messages with the family, please visit the online obituary page:
As a tribute to Pat, there will be a final tour through Napier departing from Balquhidder Road at 9:15 AM, proceeding via Tennyson and Hastings Street. We invite you to join us along the streets to bid farewell to Pat on his journey.
Parking Information:
Reserved parking will be available for family members.
A limited number of spaces will be allocated for the public.
Additional parking is available on the surrounding streets. Please ensure to give yourself ample time to arrive before the service begins promptly at 11:00 AM.
Dedicated disabled parking spaces are available on-site.
Additional Details:
Seating: Ample indoor seating is provided, with reserved seating at the front for immediate family members. Screens will be available both inside and outside the venue, along with speakers, to ensure that those outdoors can participate in the service and view Pat’s service.
Weather Consideration: In anticipation of hot weather, we advise attendees to wear sunscreen and bring hats if they plan to be outdoors.
Service Etiquette: During the service, only closed speeches will be delivered. However, there will be plenty of time following the service for attendees to share stories and memories of Pat.
Final Farewell: Pat will depart immediately following the service, and attendees are invited to gather outside to bid him a final farewell.
Post-Service Gathering: Light refreshments will be provided at Centennial Hall after the service. Additionally, the Marist Club rooms will open at 2:00 PM, welcoming all attendees to join the family in celebrating Pat’s life together and sharing stories.
Your presence and participation in honoring Pat’s life are deeply appreciated by the Benson family. Let us come together to celebrate his remarkable life and the impact he made on each of us.
