Wilton, NY- Gregory J. Benton I, 71, passed away October 12, 2022, surrounded by his family.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years Santa, his son Gregory II, his daughter Starrla (Williams), his grandchildren Addison and Tyler, his son-in-law Ian, his brother/sister-in-law Lewis and Linda Benton, his sisters -in- law/husbands Sharon and Anthony Licata, and Shelley and Keith Hodgson, along with several nieces and nephews.

He graduated from Saratoga High School, served in the U.S. Marine Corp, and served as president of the union for several years at the Saratoga Springs D.P.W. where he retired from in 2006. He started his career there as an arborist and later became the Director of Beautification, where he designed, planted, and maintained the beautiful flower beds along Broadway, Union Avenue, Congress Park, just to name a few. In addition, he served as a flower consultant at the Saratoga Race Track for two summers.

Greg enjoyed spending time with his family, working on his flowers, golfing, RV camping, home remodeling and hosting large parties. He often shared that some of his favorite memories were: spending Christmas Eve at Starrla and Ian's house, with all the family especially his grandchildren who loved their "Poppy"; helping his son Gregory with a massive home renovation project and all of the antics and fun they had doing it; enjoying the condo he and Santa owned in Myrtle Beach where they lived for several months each year, their vacation in Italy; having morning coffee with his brother Lew; and golfing with his brother and his brothers-in-law.

The family would like to extend their gratitude for the exceptional medical treatment Greg received from the most brilliant doctors: Dr. John Delmonte (Oncologist) and Dr. Alex Frank (Oncology Radiologist) and their remarkable staff members. In addition, they would like to acknowledge the professionalism and incredible care provided by Steve Millington, Karen Buczkowski, Kelli Foley, and Tom Ryberg of the Saratoga Chapter of Community Hospice.

At the family's request, services will be private. Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/ Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Home, 628 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

If you so desire, contributions can be made in Greg's memory to: Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, Kelly's Angels Inc., or a charity of your choice.