Harold W. Bengtson, Jr., 88, passed away on Sunday, March 9, 2014 at Worcester Rehabilitation and Health Care Center after an illness. He was born in Holden, the son of Harold W., Sr. and Rose (Bergstrand) Bengtson.

He leaves his loving wife of 64 years, Kathleen R. (Foudy) Bengtson; a son, Laurence W. Bengtson of Holden; a daughter, Cathleen C. Kennen and her husband Bruce of Spencer; eight grandchildren, Jason, Christin, Brian, Emily, Robert, Daniel, Kayla and Alec; several great-grandchildren; and many nephews and nieces. He was predeceased by his son, John E. Bengtson and a brother, David Bengtson and a sister, Charlotte Friberg.

Harold graduated from Holden High School and enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1943. He was a member of Company C 30th Infantry Regiment and was awarded a Purple Heart and the European African Middle Eastern Theater Campaign Ribbon. Following the service, Harold continued with his education and graduated from Boston University. He was the head interviewer for the Division of Employment Security for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for many years retiring in 1990. Previously, he was an estimator for Wyman & Gordon for 21 years. He was a member of St. George’s Church and a life member of the Disabled American Veterans.

Harold’s family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation for the care and compassion provided by the fifth floor staff of the Worcester Rehabilitation and Health Care Center.

A private memorial service for Harold will be held at the Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden followed by a committal service at Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Worcester Rehabilitation and Health Care Center, Activities Fund, 119 Providence Street, Worcester, MA 01604; or to the American Cancer Society, 30 Speen Street, Framingham, MA 01701.