Remembering Bill Benson, former business owner and local celebrity

(25News Now) - Larry William “Bill” Benson died Nov. 27. He was 84.

He opened Benson’s Maytag in 1966 and became a local celebrity because of his television ads.

Benson’s obituary said, “He had a quick wit and often integrated TV/sports characters, animals and his own children in the commercials.”

Benson retired from the business after 35-years and handed it over to his son Scott, who now owns and runs Benson’s in Peoria, Pekin and Bloomington.

The obituary said Benson moved to Arizona and entered the home rental market there, hosted Christian retreats and fellowship studies. He traveled the world, played tennis, was an avid skier, loved dancing and rode motorcycles, according to the obituary.

Benson is also remembered as a philanthropist and for his volunteer work.

A Celebration of Life for Benson is planned for 2024.