Henry R. Bennett

Henry R. "Shadow" Bennett, 79, of Gardner, died Sunday, October 31, 2010 in UMASS Memorial Healthcare, University Campus in Worcester after a lengthy illness. Henry, son of the late Fred and Laura (Tucker) Bennett, was born in Ashburnham on May 4, 1931 and lived here most of his life. His wife, Charlotte E. (Feltman) Bennett died in 1996. Henry was an inspector for the railroad for many years. He will be long remembered as a crossing guard at the corner of Baker and Pleasant Streets in Gardner. He would often dress up for Christmas or Halloween and pass out candy to the children on their way to school. Henry also enjoyed collecting stuffed animals. He will be sadly missed by his stepdaughters; Alice M. Gallant and Barbara A. Stockdale, both of Gardner, Elizabeth L. Swenson of East Templeton, Natalie Mustakangas of Worcester, Faith A. Gallant of Fitchburg and Linda L. Chase of Baldwinville, his sister; Barbara A. Brouillet of East Templeton, his brother; Loring Bennett of Winchendon and many grandchildren, several great grandchildren and many nephews and nieces. He was predeceased by one daughter; Debra Ann Bennett of Gardner who died in 1977. Family and friends are planning to honor and celebrate Henry's life by gathering for his funeral service in the Community Chapel of Lamoureux Fletcher & Smith Funeral Home, 105 Central St., Gardner on Thursday, November 4, 2010 at 11AM. Rev. William Hobbs, Pastor of St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Gardner will officiate. Burial will follow in Wildwood Cemetery, Gardner. A calling hour at the funeral home will precede the service from 10-11 AM. For directions to the funeral home or to sign the online guestbook for the Bennett family, please visit us online at www.fletchercares.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Lamoureux Fletcher & Smith Funeral Home, Gardner.