Benham, Cleary, Callan: Recent Death Notices From Monroe

MONROE, CT — Recent death notices from Monroe.

Gilbert Kenneth Schoonmaker, 77, died Jul. 24, 2025; a U.S. Air Force veteran and longtime owner of Universal Business Equipment, he was an avid golfer, fly fisherman, birdwatcher, gardener, and cook who enjoyed preparing meals with vegetables from his garden.

William Howard Benham, 70, died Jul. 9, 2025; a data analyst for multiple organizations and former owner of a fulfillment center for the National Association of Electrical Distributors, he also volunteered as a school mentor, DJ at WMNR, Little League coach, and supporter of Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo.

John J. Cleary Jr., 64, died Jun 22, 2025; he built his career while devoting much of his life to family and community.

William Charles Callan, 85, died Jun 2, 2025; a U.S. Air Force veteran and longtime Chief Inspector at Alloy Engineering, he was active in the Monroe and Bridgeport Historical Society, the Connecticut Post Card Club, and Harbor Valley Yacht Club, and enjoyed UConn basketball and attending his grandchildren’s sporting events.