A Tribute to Alec Benning
Longtime Blackburne Creek resident Alec Benning passed away in late August at the age of 81. Alec and his wife Marianne moved to Blackburne in 1996 and became involved with our Homeowners’ Association shortly afterwards.
Alec initially served on the Board as a community
liaison where he initiated valuable contacts with City
officials. Quite
amazingly, he more or less singlehandedly convinced the City to install street
lighting on the then dark cowpath that used to be 111 Street (at the time 111
Street was an oiled two lane road from Twin Brooks to Seven Oaks golf course
with Blackburne Creek being a lonely settlement hidden in the bushes on the east
side of 111th ).
Alec served on the Board of the Homeowners’ Association as President for a number of terms and later acted as consultant to subsequent boards where his knowledge of finance and legal matters proved invaluable. Examples abound of his untiring efforts at keeping Blackburne Creek to the standards set out by the developer and of the neighborhood, including obtaining legal opinions on standardized roofing and fencing materials and design that, in addition to our founding documents, have served to guide ensuing Boards. After settling a lawsuit against the surveyor for lost revenue, Alec proceeded with the planning and installation of our entrance walls, a great improvement to the appearance of the community and one that sets us apart as a neighborhood that takes pride in its appearance.The photo above has Alec (pictured second from left) supervising the project.
Alec spent innumerable hours of his time on community business and never failed to generate enthusiasm and dedication in those who worked with him. He took great pride in the community, not only as a leader but individually, becoming a "Partner in Parks" with the City and transforming the hillside behind his property into a horticultural showpiece much appreciated by the residents Even in his later years, Alec remained a friendly approachable man, willing to help out when needed.
On behalf of the residents of Blackburne Creek, the Board wishes to convey our condolences to Alec’s family, and our gratitude for his many and varied contributions to the well-being and beautification of our community.