William E. Bennett, (Bill), formerly of Shelton CT, entered into the eternal kingdom of our Lord on 21 July of 2016. He was a resident of both Vero Beach FL and Hendersonville NC at the time of his passing.
He was born September 16, 1932. Originally from Ansonia CT, he enlisted in the US Navy after Ansonia High School graduation and a momentous drive to California with his best friend. He married Janet Cunningham before being stationed in Pensacola FL, eventually returning to CT, where he began a long career as a Service Technician for 3M Products out of the New Haven office. Bill enjoyed meeting new people and was on the road each day to service calls in all parts of CT.
Settling in the White Hills area of Shelton CT with his young family, later years after retirement brought him to Hernando FL, and eventually Vero Beach FL, and Hendersonville NC.
A passion for singing was sparked as a choir boy, and continued throughout his life. In addition to singing with his church choir each Sunday, he was an original member of the White Hills Chorale in CT, and the Masters Choir of Ocala FL.
Often enjoying a game of horseshoes and a cold beer with neighbors, Bill Bennett was known to liven conversation with a wild joke or two. Fond of hockey, he frequented New Haven Blades’ games.
On occasion, he shared many stories of his experiences and travels in the Pacific while in the Navy, and the excitement of working with the Blue Angels. And although never returning to Hawaii after his time there in the Service, Bill enjoyed several trips with his wife, Jan, to both foreign lands and other parts of the US. He had a gift of striking up conversation with most anyone.
Bill was predeceased by his wife Janet Cunningham Bennett in 2001, as well as older siblings Shirley Bennett Roberts, Edward (Eddy) Bennett, and Jean Bennett Richard. He leaves behind daughters Georgia (AKA Gigi) Bennett (Michael) Mudway of Wayland MA, Doreen Bennett (Greg Faust) of Los Angeles CA, and longtime companion Cynthia Manley of Vero Beach FL. Bill is the grandfather of David Mudway of Wayland MA, and uncle of Stanley Roberts, Leslie Roberts Thurston, Judy Bennett Calling, Edward Bennett Jr., the late Cheryl Bennett, Brian Bennett, Bruce Richard, and Leta Richard Karasinski.
A memorial will be held on his birthday at the historic White Hills Baptist Church, where his ashes will lay to rest. That day is Saturday, 16 September 2017 at 12 Noon for any family or friends that wish to attend. The church is on School St in White Hills (Shelton) CT, near the intersections of Rt 110, Beardsley Rd and School St.
He is sadly missed, and lovingly remembered for his smile and a wink of his expressive brown eyes.
