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John Bennett Obituary
1953 - 2013
John Charles Bennett passed away at his home in Salt Lake City, UT on June 19, 2013. He was born to Edwin Frank and Ruth Hecker Bennett in San Diego, CA on March 8, 1953. He attended BYU on a tennis scholarship where he was very successful—playing number one singles and doubles, and earning All-America honors. In his tennis career, he played the European pro circuit, was the first head pro of Sherwood Hills in Provo, UT, coached the men's and women's tennis teams at Boise State, was head pro at Crane Creek Country Club in Boise, ID and most recently taught tennis in Salt Lake City, UT. When he turned 35 he went on tour, reaching a ranking of #1 in the Intermountain Region, #25 in the nation in singles and #11 in doubles—all in just one year on the circuit.
John joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1972. He was a missionary in Brazil. He was a devoted member. He married Kathleen Liechty (divorced, 2000). Four children were born to them. In 2004, he married Debra Drennan. He is survived by his wife Debbie, his children, Jennifer (Shae) Fetters, Michael (Camille), Rebecca, Angela (Jason) Ivancich, eight grandchildren, his brothers Richard (Bonnie), Robert, and David (Celeste). He was preceeded in death by his parents and brother, William.
John fought a nearly 3 year battle with cancer. Information about the viewing and funeral and a detailed obituary can be found at serenicarefuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Bennett
Brian Triptow
July 1, 2013
John is a gracious and optimistic man. I will remember him for his friendly way and the easy conversation between drills at the Liberty tennis courts. God bless.
Ashlie Counts-Jenkins
June 30, 2013
John was a classmate at Hoover high and he has left us too soon. Sending prayers and asking for God's comfort to surround his entire family.
Fumiko Iwasaki
June 28, 2013
John, thank you for helping to raise my children, Ally and Katie at Liberty Park Tennis Center. You watched my girls grow up and not only did you coach them the fundamentals of tennis but you also taught them through your example of being good caring people. I will always be grateful for your genuine concern for their well being. You will be greatly missed. I will forever be indebted to you. Thank you.
June 27, 2013
Debbie,
We are so saddened to hear of John's death. Nine years together is too short, but also happy that you had him in your life. Love and prayers...Mel and Carol Butler
Barbara Conibear
June 26, 2013
May you rest in peace John. Saying prayers for the family.
Barbara Conibear, AKA Rosenberg, class of Hoover High 1971
Lee and Jane Curtis
June 26, 2013
We are very sad to hear of John's passing. Our prayers are with Debbie and the family at this tender time.
Janet Sickinger-Martin
June 26, 2013
I am so saddened to hear of John's passing. We were classmates at Hoover. My sincere condolences to his family.
Marie Goddard
June 25, 2013
I was so saddened to hear John had lost his battle with cancer. I watched him at Liberty Park and saw a gentle giant of a man. We had some great conversations and good hitting. We crossed paths unexpectedly at the U hospital last year and I will remember his cheery, positive outlook. His smile will be missed. My very best to his family.
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