James Bennett

James (Jim) Bennett, 93

Obituary for James "Jim" Bennett

James "Jim" Bennett, beloved husband, father, grandfather, banker, and friend, passed away peacefully of natural causes on August 22, 2025, at the age of 93.

Born on October 28, 1931, in Zurich, Montana, Jim grew up during the Great Depression on a small farm, where he learned hard work, perseverance, and self-reliance-values that guided him throughout his remarkable life.

Jim shared 72 years of marriage with his devoted wife, Frankie Bennett, the love of his life and his partner in all things. Together, they raised three children: Don Bennett (wife Barbra), Cathy Fitzgerald (Pete Peterson), and Nancy Bennett. Jim's legacy continues through his six cherished grandchildren: Melissa Rausch (husband Mike, son Andon, daughter Murphy, son Shaw) Kellen Bennett, Blayne Furey (husband Brian), Jeff Fitzgerald (wife Melanie, daughter Bekah Dillon (husband Trevor), Andrew Fitzgerald, and Kylie Fitzgerald (Mike Gossett).

Though accomplished in many fields, Jim remained humble and generous. He had a heart for helping others, often working quietly to make life-changing differences. As an example, each year, he, and Frankie sponsored dental care and braces for children through the Boys and Girls Club, creating countless smiles and instilling confidence in young lives.

Integrity was the foundation of Jim's character, and his reputation was beyond reproach. With only a high school education but extraordinary intelligence, imagination, and ingenuity, he was an accomplished banker for over 65 years.

In 1969, Jim founded First Citizens Bank in Billings, Montana-a groundbreaking accomplishment that required him to take the extraordinary step of suing the state banking commissioner to secure the charter. His victory not only established First Citizens Bank but also paved the way for others, with fourteen new bank applications filed within a year of his court victory. After the sale of First Citizens in 2004, Jim and Frankie joined their son Don Bennett and daughter-in-law Barbra Bennett in founding Freedom Bank in Columbia Falls, Montana in 2005, which continues to flourish today.

Jim's imagination led to many unique accomplishments, such as the installation of a Foucault Pendulum in the lobby of First Citizens Bank-a fixture still operating 47 years later. His love of learning was boundless; as a young man, he read the entire Encyclopedia Book of Knowledge, and even in his 90s he was deeply engaged in genealogy, reading, and studying the wonders of planet earth and the universe.

Jim was a man of many talents and passions. He was an accomplished Bridge player, achieving the rank of Grand Life Master at a young age, and continued playing up until a week before his passing. He was also a licensed private pilot with a twin-engine instrument rating, an avid gardener with legendary produce, and a fisherman who delighted in annual trips to Alaska with family, taking a different child or grandchild each year to create cherished memories for everyone.

Despite growing up in poverty, Jim built a life rich in purpose, accomplishment, and love. He enjoyed golf, cultivating his garden, and most of all, time with family. His humility, generosity, and integrity left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Jim and Frankie documented their life together in a memoir, closing with these words of encouragement to their grandchildren:

"Always believe in yourselves. You are all capable of doing whatever your life goals are going to be. Don't be afraid to fail. Go for it. Be strong and stand up for your beliefs. Remember, we are all equal. Be sure to help others that aren't as fortunate as you. Be kind to all people."

Jim Bennett embodied those values every day of his 93 years. His life was a testament to faith, perseverance, and generosity, and he will be remembered with love and gratitude.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Columbia Falls Kids Foundation c/o Freedom Bank, 530 9th St W, Columbia Falls, MT, or a charity of your choice.

A funeral Service for Jim was held at the Dahl Funeral Chapel in Billings, MT on Friday, August 29th with a military burial at Mountview Cemetery.