Donald Bennett

Donald Bennett, a dedicated member of the Seymour community and a respected figure in the banking industry, passed away peacefully on March 18, 2025, at his residence. Born on September 14, 1945, in Marengo, Indiana, Donald lived a life marked by professionalism, kindness, and commitment to his family and career.

Donald’s educational journey began at Clarksville High School, from which he graduated in 1963. He furthered his studies at Indiana University, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Business Finance in 1971. His academic achievements laid the groundwork for a successful career in banking that spanned several decades. In 1987, Donald moved to Seymour, Indiana, where he began his long-standing tenure in commercial lending. He served as Assistant Vice President of Commercial Lending for Seymour National Bank before moving to Home Federal Bank in 1993, where he held the position of Vice President. His career continued to flourish at Irwin Union Bank, where he became Senior Vice President of Commercial Lending in 2003, and later at River Valley Bank as Vice President. Donald retired from banking in 2009, leaving behind a legacy of integrity and dedication to his profession.

A faithful member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Donald was known for his quiet demeanor and unwavering professionalism. His colleagues and customers alike appreciated his respectful nature and his belief that a handshake was a bond that spoke volumes. He was a man of his word, always straightforward in his discussions, and treated everyone with warmth and consideration.

Beyond his professional commitments, Donald had a passion for photography. He enjoyed capturing moments through the lens of his camera and particularly cherished his time taking sports pictures for the Jefferson Evening News during his college years.

Donald is survived by his devoted wife of 58 years, Susan Shumaker Bennett; his son, Robert Justin Bennett, residing in Bloomington, Indiana; and his daughter, Rebecca Bennett, alongside her fiancé Billy Ellis, both of Seymour, Indiana. He was a proud grandfather of two grandchildren, Kathryn "Kate" Sturgill and Kyle Sturgill, and also cherished the joys of fatherhood through his great-granddaughter, Ellie-Mae Strugill.

Donald was preceded in death by his father, Samuel Bennett; mother, Wanda House Jones; and siblings, Bill W. Bennett, Michael Jones, and Barbara Wright.

Visitation will be held on March 25, 2025, from 11:00 AM until 2:00 PM, followed by a funeral service from at 2:00 PM, at Christensen Family Funeral Home, located at 311 Holiday Square Road, Seymour, Indiana 47274 with Pastor Ralph Blomenberg and Pastor James Rodriguez officiating. He will be laid to rest at Riverview Cemetery.

The family requests that memorials be directed to the Immanuel Lutheran Church Human Care Fund in his honor.

He will be remembered fondly by all who had the pleasure of knowing him, and his contributions to both family and community will endure in the hearts of many.

Friends are invited to leave condolence messages for the family at www.christensenfamilyfuneral.com.

Daniel and Betsy have been entrusted with the arrangements.