Richard A. Bennatt

Richard Allen Bennatt was called home by Our Heavenly Father on July 22, 2015. Richard was born on May 12, 1941 to William Martin Bennatt and Mary Lois Bennatt-Walker in Houston. He is preceded in death by his parents, siblings, and sons, Richard Jr. and Gaylon Glenn. Richard is survived by his loving wife, Kathleen Grace Bennatt; sons Phillip Martin Allen Shane Bennatt and Michael Steele Bennatt; daughter Lorena Grace and husband, Shaun Allen Shiery. He is also survived by his grandchildren McKayla Bennatt, Megan Bennatt, Gaylon Glenn Seigel, Adyson Shiery, Kylee Shiery, Jaxon Shiery, Morgan Westerman and Brandi Young.
Richard grew up in Houston before moving to Austin where he met his wife, Kathleen. They were married on May 15, 1979 in Austin. Richard and Kathleen moved to Smithville in 1985, where he worked as an insurance salesman as well as owning and operating R&K Storage. Richard and Kathleen loved to travel. Their destinations included Paris, Hawaii and Cozumel, to name a few. Richard is known for his passion for football. Each year, Richard's restored classic cars were on display at the Smithville Jamboree car show and parade. Richard enjoyed reading 'good ole western' novels or making jokes with any one that he could. Richard was an elder statesman in recovery in the Smithville area for many years. Helping others was his passion, and without this foundation, none of the joy that he found would have been possible.
We will never forget Richard's love for his family and friends or his sense of humor. Richard will be greatly missed, but we will continue living our lives according to his daily example of strength, courage and compassion for all. Richard was a loving husband, great father, and friend to many. We know that he is in a better place and is no longer suffering. We will see you soon.