1962 – 2024
With profound grief and sadness, we announce the sudden passing of an amazing father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, Benson Leitch, who passed on April 10, 2024 at the age of 61. Devoted father of Eliza (Michael) and Dylan (Sonia) and grandfather of Shepard Flemming.
Benson was born in Calgary, Alberta to Peter and Betty Leitch (predeceased 2010 and 2011). The youngest of five siblings, he will be deeply missed by his brothers and sisters, Cindy (Gary), Peter (Leslie), Pam, and David (Jo-Anne). The consummate fun uncle, he will be remembered fondly by his many nieces and nephews.
Growing up in Calgary, Benson spent his early years skiing, camping, and enjoying the outdoors with family and friends in Elbow Park and Roxboro. Annually, Benson would return to Calgary for Stampede, skiing, and time with family and old friends. In High School, Benson attended Saltus Grammar School in Bermuda where he made what would become lifelong friendships. Some of his favourite memories were from his frequent trips visiting old friends and attending Cup Match and the Non-Mariners Race.
Benson graduated from the University of Western Ontario in 1984 and was active in campus life, playing rugby and belonging to the Zeta Phi fraternity. At Western, he met his closest and best friends that he kept throughout his life. Benson followed in his father’s footsteps in his professional life leading a highly successful career as Senior Vice President of Property Lines with Gerling Global and successive companies, GCAN and Arch Insurance Group. We are so grateful Benson was able to soak up every moment of his early retirement in Collingwood – golfing 18 holes daily, skiing, cycling, and tons of travel.
Benson raised his children with Martina Spilker in Toronto in a house full of fun, music, laughter, and love. Benson would always say his greatest accomplishment was his children and was deeply proud of the accomplishments and lives built by both Eliza and Dylan. He would move mountains for his children and instilled invaluable life lessons and values that will be carried on by them. They miss him deeply and planned on decades more time and memories with their dad. His love and support extended to both his children-in-law, Michael Flemming and Sonia Gutierrez, who share in the profound grief of Eliza and Dylan.
His greatest role yet was that of Grandpa. He loved Shepard with all his heart and was eager to welcome a new grandchild in June. We are devastated they will grow up with stories of this great man instead of first-hand experiences.
Benson’s passion for life and unwavering positivity and optimism were undeniable. A two-time cancer survivor, Benson deeply understood what was truly meaningful in life – time well spent. His commitment to living life to its fullest potential was deeply motivating and inspiring. He would want everyone to hold their loved ones close, listen to great music, and toast to family and friends with a cold beverage.
Cremation has taken place in a private ceremony and a larger celebration of life will be planned and scheduled for a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the YMCA of Three Rivers Camp Waabanaki Camper Fee Assist Fund in Benson’s name would be deeply appreciated. Camp Waabanaki is where Eliza, Dylan, and Michael Flemming spent countless summers learning valuable life and leadership skills. Donations may be arranged at www.erbgood.com