John Bligh
Barbara Benjaminson, a retired lab specialist who worked in New York City public schools for 29 years, died on July 24, 2023, of complications from diabetes. She had turned 91 on July 7.
Barbara was a lab specialist at Park West HS in Hell’s Kitchen, Manhattan – formerly called the Food and Maritime Trades HS – when she retired in 1994. She worked for most of her career at the school, which closed in 2007. She was a UFT member for more than 50 years.
“Her co-workers and students were her second family,” said Brina Gartner, her daughter. “She loved and was dedicated to her job.”
Barbara loved to travel. Barbara and her mother traveled together to China, North Africa and other locales. She was also passionate about gardening and the arts.
“Barbara was a wonderful daughter, wife, mother and grandmother,” her daughter said.
In addition to Brina, Barbara is survived by her husband of 44 years; her son, Ari; as well as four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
Condolences may be sent to:
Gartner family
1924 Longvue St.
Yorktown Heights, NY 10598
