Muriel Benshimol

Muriel Adele Ross Benshimol, age 98, of Kennebunk, ME, formerly of Reading, MA, died peacefully at Huntington Common on April 29, 2025.

Beloved wife of the late Richard Benshimol, she was the devoted mother of Dale (Samuel) Bliven of Tampa, FL; Gladys Benshimol of York, ME; and Pamela (Roger) Fink of Gilford, NH. She was the cherished grandmother of Rachel (Jeff) Pearson of East Barre, VT; Justin (Jessica) Fink of Charlotte, NC; and Tyler (Ashley) Fink of Huntersville, NC. She was also the proud great-grandmother of Mason, Caleb, Alex Shatney, Emma Pearson, and Frances Fink.

Muriel leaves behind her “honorary” daughter, Debora Marathon of Kennebunk; several nieces, nephews, and cousins; the dedicated staff and residents of Huntington Common; and countless dear friends.

She was predeceased by her parents, Arthur L. and Gladys E. Ross; stepmother, Helen Ross; sister, Florence Summerhays; and grandsons, Ross Adam and Justin Adam Bryan.
Born July 17, 1926, in the shadow of the Catskill Mountains in Hudson, NY, Muriel grew up in Framingham, MA, spending summers on her grandmother’s farm in Lisbon Falls and the family cottage in Cundy’s Harbor, Maine. As a young girl, she helped her uncle milk cows and deliver milk, and once got her little dress caught on a nail while attempting a daring jump across a hayloft!

At age 14, Muriel lost her mother and bravely carried on with her beloved father. She excelled in school as an active and engaged honors student at Framingham High. After graduation, she attended Lasell Junior College in Auburndale, MA, where she rowed on the winning crew team. In 1946, she earned an associate’s degree as a medical secretary and worked for several physicians.

In June 1947, Muriel married Richard Benshimol of Arlington, MA. After a joyful wedding at the Harvard University Chapel, they honeymooned in Ogunquit and Cundy’s Harbor, ME. They settled in Laconia, NH, where Dick taught high school and all three of their children were born. Muriel was the quintessential multi-talented mom—skilled in cooking, sewing, decorating, budgeting, and, above all, nurturing and loving.
In 1956, the family moved to Reading, MA, where they spent 35 years building a vibrant life full of lasting friendships and cherished memories. Muriel enjoyed literature, camping, skiing, tennis, boating, and hiking with her family. Later, she and Dick traveled extensively, both domestically and abroad. A highlight for Muriel was a special trip to Ireland with her granddaughter Rachel.

In 2001, Muriel and Dick moved to Wells, ME, and in 2011, they relocated to Huntington Common in Kennebunk, where they happily spent their remaining years.
A lifelong member of the Mayflower Society, Muriel was active in the Iris Network, Wells Senior Center, Congregational Church of Wells, and the Wells Historical Society. A passionate reader and lifelong learner, she had deep interests in current events, religion, psychology, medicine, and spirituality. Earlier in life, she was an accomplished jitterbug dancer and played the trumpet, piano, and bugle. Her love of music remained strong—she enjoyed concerts, sing-alongs, and listening to music on her Alexa until her passing.
As a friend recently described her: Muriel was a “kind, gentle soul; affectionate friend; fiery advocate; fearless explorer; intrepid seeker; adventurous traveler; and hopeful pilgrim.” She was beloved by many. With her sharp wit and zest for life, she loved deeply and laughed often. She will be missed forever by her family and all who knew her.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Huntington Common community, Dr. Todd Adams, and all of Muriel’s friends and caregivers for their loving support.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in her name to:

• Maine PBS
• The Cundy’s Harbor Library
• The National Audubon Society
• Any organization supporting children with disabilities
• Or a charity of your choice

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 12:00PM in Ocean View Cemetery 1485 Post Rd, Wells.

Following the graveside service please join the family at the Wells Congregational Church 1695 Post Rd in Wells for a time of refreshments and sharing memories of Muriel.