Connie L Bennett

Constance "Connie" Lynn Bennett, age 88, of Bay City, formerly of Sandusky, passed away peacefully on September 29, 2025, surrounded by family.
Connie was born on August 29, 1937, in Sandusky to the late Earl and Mabel (McPherson) Prange. From a young age, Connie had a curious spirit and a joyful personality, and she loved spending time at her Grandma and Grandpa Prange's farm and at the family cottage near Caseville with her brother, Donald "Donnie". Those early days on the farm and by the lake shaped her deep love for family and nature, creating memories she cherished and shared for years to come.
After graduating from Sandusky High School in 1955, Connie attended flight attendant school in Los Angeles, California. She later returned to Sandusky and, on October 18, 1958, married Wayne L. Bennett at Peace Lutheran Church. Together, they raised two daughters, Wendy and Shelly. Once the girls were older, Connie began a career in retail sales at Hudson's in Saginaw, where her natural knack for connecting with people earned her recognition as Employee of the Month. She later found joy in antique sales at various malls and shows, delighting in helping others discover the special treasures they were seeking.
Family was always Connie's top priority. After her father passed away, she returned to her childhood home to care for her mother. When Wayne developed health challenges later in life, she cared for him with unwavering love and patience. She was a devoted wife and mother, and a proud grandmother and great-grandmother.
Connie had a gift for making ordinary moments feel special through her laughter and creativity. Her artistic spirit came to life through ceramics, cross-stitch, crocheting, and quilting, each piece lovingly crafted. Family and friends cherished not only her creativity but also her quick wit and playful sense of humor. Her presence brought warmth, laughter, and comfort to everyone around her.
Connie is survived by her daughters, Wendy (Ron) Wiltse and Shelly Bennett; grandchildren: Rachel (Michael) Thompson, Drew Wiltse, James (Rachel) Janisse, Patrick (Kacie) Janisse and Byron Janisse; great-grandchildren: Vera, Cora and Ezra Janisse.
She was preceded in death by her husband Wayne, grandson Michael, brother Donnie, and several beloved in-laws.
Her immediate family will celebrate her life with a service at Messiah Lutheran Church in Roscommon.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Wager and Walsh Funeral Directors, Roscommon.