Ernest Benkoski

Ernest F. Benkoski, 88, USAF retiree and one of the ?greatest generation?, departed this life on January 20, 2011. Ernest, known as Ben, was a native of Westford, MA, who resided on Greenbriar Road in North Syracuse for many years. After graduating from Westford Academy in 1938, he joined the Civil Conservation Corps and worked in Montana Forester Service.
Ben served as a career military officer from WWII through the 1960?s. Ben saw action in the European Theatre in WWII as a P-38 pilot. He was shot down on February 19, 1945 and held as a POW in Zagreb, Yugoslavia. Ben?s military postings took him to the Canal Zone, Panama; Tripoli, Libya; Okinawa, Japan; and lastly to Syracuse?s Hancock Field. Ben went on to become the custodian for the Bessie B. Riordan and Main Street Schools in North Syracuse, which he found rewarding. He enjoyed building race cars with his son, Rick, and drag racing in Cape Cod.
Ben was predeceased by his wife, the former Florence "Flo" Succo, in 2005.
Surviving are their four children: Elaine of Boston, MA, Richard of FL, David Mary Ann and Gerard Lori, all of Clay; his four grandchildren: Adam, Kimberly, Brian and Craig; and a great grandson, Austin.
Friends may call Monday from 10-11am at Krueger Funeral Home, 2619 Brewerton Rd., Mattydale, with an 11:00 am funeral service following. Burial will be in Veteran's Memorial Cemetery. Contributions may be made to any Veterans Service Organization of your choice.