Ernest Everett Bennett

Born on March 15, 1940 in Coldwater, KS. Passed away on January 10, 2026 at age 85, surrounded by his loving family.

Ernest was a teacher and coach, serving in the Milwaukee Public Schools, Topeka, Kansas High School, and, finally, for 30 years, in the School District of Elmbrook. He also served as the Director and Lead Instructor of the gymnastics program for the Wauwatosa Recreation Department and the Greendale Recreation Department for many years. A lifelong athlete, he played football, basketball and ran track at Coldwater Highschool, Southwestern College, and ran 7 marathons in his 50s. In retirement, he was an avid gardener, cultivating beautiful trees, flowers, and vegetables around his and Beverly's home, and worked 15 years part-time as a delivery driver for Barb's Green House Florist in Hales Corners, Wisconsin. He was a volunteer at Habitat for Humanity as well as at Christ United Methodist Church where he was a long-time member and served on the Board of Trustees. He was also a life member of the National Education Association.

He was the devoted and loving husband of Beverly (nee Reynolds) for 65 years; father of Allyson Bennett (Peter Pierre), Brad Bennett, and Stephanie Jacks (Jeremiah); brother of Alice Matthews and Wesley Bennett (Eloisa), and brother-in-law of Ernest William Reynolds (Glenda) and John Richard Reynolds (Elaine). Ernest is further survived by 7 grandchildren: Grace Esther, Kayleigh Beverly, Madelyn Rose, Abigail Susan, Sullivan Ernest, Isaiah Jeremiah, Jasmine Maryann and Jada Evelyn. He is also survived by many relatives and friends.

A memorial service will be held Saturday January 17th at Hartson Funeral Home, with visitation from 1:00pm until the time of the service at 2:30. Private inurnment at Forest Home Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts would be appreciated to The Parkinson's Foundation, Froedtert Hospital Foundation, or a charity of your choice.

Greendale -