Norman R. Bennett Sr.

Norman R. Bennett, Sr., 77 passed away at his home in Deming, on Wed., March 2, 2011. A native of Chico CA, he was the eldest of three children of F. Ward and Winifred Bennett. He married Sharron "Shari" Baker on April 6, 1958 in Chico. A journeyman job shop machinist, and a credentialed Machine Shop Instructor, in 1982 opened Drive Line Service of Bellingham. Norm will be remembered as a peaceful, gentle, and honest man, who lived The Golden Rule, having a dry wit and quiet compassionate warmth, an avid reader, with a voracious thirst for knowledge. His hobbies revolved around racing, in track, bicycling, motorcycle racing, dirt bikes, and fast cars. He spent many pleasurable years in the waters of S. F. Bay, and Sacramento River, fishing in his Boston Whaler. He relished the memories of "solving the problems of the world", sitting with the "Big Boys" gathered at the round table of the old D.T. At 62, contented, with a healthy sense of accomplishment, he hung up his cap, confidently turning the shop over to his wife and son, Ritch. He went home to ride his tractor, and to relax in the recliner for his many "arm chair travels." Norm was preceded in death by his parents, and two sons, Joe and Sammy. He leaves behind, his devoted wife, of 52 years, Shari, and his loyal pup, Woody, his children; Julie, (Jeff) McKinney, Jeffery (Brenda), Rebecca (Jack) Hendricks, and Norman "Ritch," II, (Sandi), his sister, Carol (Bob) Weyant, Bellevue, and brother, Bob (Eleni) Bennett, his beloved 7 grandchildren, precious, soon-to-be 6 great grandchildren, and numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins. Our little corner of the world has lost a wonderful man, but the heavens have gained one heck of a soul. Norm grew to love and trust in Dr. John Hruby, and Carren, Sheila, Vickie, and Peg of Hospice, for their care during these past 8 months. A celebration of his life will be held at the family home June 18th 2-5 p.m. Please visit his hotmail address at norm.bennett 11@hotmail.com, FB page Norman Bennett. Memorial gifts in his name may be made to Hospice of Bellingham, 800 Chestnut St., Suite 1C, Blhm., WA 98225.