Eugene Edward "Gene" Bennett

Eugene Edward (Gene) Bennett Eugene Edward Bennett passed away September 27, 2010 at home at the age of 83. Born October 22, 1926 in Cincinnati Ohio, son of Edward and Helen Bennett he proudly served our country in the Army and the Airforce during WWII being the youngest to fight in the battle of Sloerno. After returning stateside, he settled in Battle Creek and together with his wife Shirley started and ran Bennett Heating and Air conditioning serving B.C. and surrounding areas until their retirement and subsequent sale of their business in the late 70's. They raised two children, son William (Jeanette) Bennett, Longmont, CO, daughter Gloria (Marv) Leyda, Ocala, FL. They survive him. Gene enjoyed many years of retirement flying his plane which he found to be one of his most rewarding accomplishments, traveling through out the US and abroad, wintering in Florida and settling in Houghton Lake, MI. Preceding him in death, his wife of 38 years Shirley Browne Bennett 1983, grandson Matthew Leyda 2008. Other survivors include sister Joan Farley, TN., wife of 24 years Francis Paquet Bennett, Houghton Lake, stepchildren David, William, Marie and Jeanette Paquet of Canada, grandchildren Brian and Bret Bennett, Brooke (Mike) Palowiski, MI, Kristen (Gary) Vendur, GA.; and 10 step grandchildren, Canada. Great-grandchildren Brianna Bennett, Mercedes and Carson Vendur and 2 step great-grandchildren, Canada. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to Mercy Hospice, 324 Meadows Dr., Grayling, MI. 49738. Honoring Gene's wishes, arrangements, National Cremation Society with graveside service to follow at a later date with internment Curlew Hills Memory Gardens Palm Harbor Florida.