James Elliot Benjamin

Jim’s greatest joy was his family, both immediate and extended. He was a devoted and loving husband to his wife Amy Fishkow who he was happily married to for 37 years. Together, they enjoyed entertaining family, traveling the world, going to the beach and socializing with long time friends. He was most proud of his two daughters Rachel Elaine and Sarah Hope; instilling in them the values he lived by - kindness, honesty, optimism, hard work and willingness to help others. Jim was thrilled to welcome son-in-law, Brian Teitel into the family, quickly gaining a biking and sports buddy.

Jim enthusiastically shared his big smile, kind words and time with many local volunteer activities at Temple Beth El, Congregation Agudath Sholom, Stamford Museum, Bartlett Arboretum, Reading Partners, Starfish, Chevra Kadisha and Greenwich Hospital. Additionally, he enjoyed playing tennis, biking, gardening, scuba diving, reading and rarely missed the opportunity to root for his UCONN ladies! Everyone who knew Jim will deeply miss his warmth, caring and positive outlook on life.

Jim completed his BA and MBA at the University of Connecticut in Storrs. He used his business background in a variety of operations, logistics and consulting capacities at IBM, Caldor and Duty Free International. Later in life he formed Home Matters, a general contracting company and cofounded GB Management a property management and development company. He was ahead of his time with his interest in sustainable green building (LEED certified) and focus on aging in place.

Jim is predeceased by his parents Martin and Yvette Benjamin. He is survived by his four brothers and their wives: Daniel and Sabrina Benjamin, Sanford Benjamin and Barbara Vogt, Alfred Benjamin and Alison Moll, William and Robin Benjamin and also his brother-in-law and sister-in-law Michael Fishkow and Leslie Stein, many loved cousins, nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at Temple Beth El in Stamford on Monday March 3 at 11AM. For shiva details please contact Temple Beth El. In lieu of flowers please consider planting a tree at Jewish National Fund, or donating to the Bartlett Arboretum, Michael J Fox Foundation, American Parkinsons Disease Association or the charity of your choice.