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Robert Glenn Bennett
Robert Glenn Bennett
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Robert Bennett Obituary
He was born Dec. 30, 1933, in Bradford County, Pa., to Glenn F. and Florence M. Bennett of Laceyville, Pa. He was raised on the family's fourth-generation dairy farm and learned the true meaning of a hard day's work. After graduating from high school there, he accepted an appointment to West Point Military Academy, where he attended two years. After leaving West Point, he attended Penn State University, and then moved to California in 1954 to complete his degree at Long Beach State, where he met his wife to be, Myrna Foley, and received a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration.
He subsequently went to work for Vickers Aerospace Hydraulics in Long Beach, Ca. as a purchasing agent and then found employment more to his liking in the construction industry. In 1965, he negotiated with John Coggins of C & W Fence Co. in Ventura, Ca. and purchased that business. Now that he had ownership of his own firm, he put his sharp wit and inherent business skills to work, and the company expanded quickly. In 1972, he founded Ventura Fence Co., known today as Fence Factory Corp., which quickly expanded even further. At the time of his death, with his family also at the grindstone, his enterprises include approximately 200 employees (some of whom stayed with him more than 30 year) and 12 divisions, including Los Angeles, Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties of California.
As a California contractor, he oversaw the completion of several regional landmarks such as the pedestrian/bike paths on Harbor Boulevard and on Channel Islands Boulevard over the Channel Islands Harbor, Pasadena's historic Colorado Street Bridge, The Ojai Trail, River Ridge Golf Course, Rincon Freeway and Glendale Freeway Fencing Projects. He received the Associated General Contractors California Constructor of the Year award in 1989 for innovation in technique or materials for the Channel Islands Harbor bike/pedestrian path.
His passions for life included anything from a good poker game or chess game to wrapping himself around a good history book, especially if it was an accurate accounting of World War II as we grew up hearing news clips and radio reports of the battles and it always appealed to him as a strategist. He was also known for his trips to the casino and especially enjoyed any vacation or getaway that included his family.
From the late 1960s through the late 1980s, he served on the board of directors for International Fence Industry Association (which later became the American Fence Association), EGCA (Engineering and Grading Contractors Association) and AGC (Associated General Contractors). He knew that there was benefit to heavy involvement in the trade associations and devoted a lot of energy in doing so. As a result, he received awards and recognition from each association in which he was involved, including but not limited to chairmanships, committee leaders and board of directors positions.
He was preceded in death by his mother and father and his daughter-in-law, Nicci Bennett of Ventura.
He will be greatly missed by many friends and associates as well as his wife of 49 years, Myrna of Camarillo; sons, Michael of Ventura, Steven (wife Holly), Charles (wife Cindy); daughter, Laurie, all of Camarillo; stepdaughters, Cherie Schmid (husband Paul) of Ojai and Charlene Alsup of Oxnard; brothers, Dr. John (wife Regna) of Atlanta, Ga., and James of Columbus, Ohio; sister, Susanne Sagreti (husband Alfred) of Cincinnati, Ohio; grandchildren, U.S. Army Spc. 4 Brian, Glenn, Julie, Justin, Samantha, Karen, Christopher, Bryan and Noah; as well as two great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, May 5, 2008, at the Beaver Meadows United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Diane E. Prentice, officiating. Interment will in the family plot in the adjoining church cemetery.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the P. Dean Homer Funeral Home, 1 Grovedale Lane, Wyalusing, PA 18853.
To send condolences or sign the e-guestbook, please go to homerfuneralhome.com.
This obituary was originally published in the Daily Review (Towanda, PA).
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Giles Moss-Hayes
May 29, 2008
Sorry to hear about your loss
My thoughts and prays are with you all at this time
Mary Jordan
May 5, 2008
The last time I saw my cousin Bob was at his father's, my uncle's, 100th birthday party in Pennsylvania. I can't remember how many years it had been before that. I do remember telling my sister Ann on the flight out from LA for that party that I had to show her two people on the plane that looked just like one of our brothers and one of my sons. Sholud've known it was cousins, as I later found out. It was so good to see him and all his extended family and catch up. i can't imagine how hard this is for you Myrna after so many years together. My heart goes out all of you at this time. May his memory bring you only closer together. Love ,
cousin Mary
Ray Cobos
May 4, 2008
Our sincere sympathy goes out to the Bennett family. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Seth and Tammy Silva
May 2, 2008
Our thoughts are with all of the Bennett family during this time. As I sat yesterday during the services I realized what an awesome impact Mr. Bennett had made on everyone's lives in that room and even those that weren't there. By pursuing his dreams and goals he has blessed each one of us with the opportunity to work as a member of the Fence Factory team and we are proud of that.
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Jerry Short
May 2, 2008
Bob is the true definition of an industry icon. He always had great stories to tell. The company culture that he built at Fence Factory is a true testament to his passion and love of the fence industry. We all have lost an esteemed business associate but not the lessons or memories that were bestowed on each and everyone he came in contact with.
Erick and Patti Gonzalez
May 1, 2008
We both send our sympathy to all of the family. We are sorry for your loss and Prayers are with you. God be with you at this time.
Ann (Beckman) Bonestell
May 1, 2008
So sad to lose another member of our wonderful family! But the love he leaves behind is his greatest legacy. Bob will always be in our hearts, along with his dear mom and dad, and all the others who have gone on ahead. He certainly will be missed.
Michael Bennett
May 1, 2008
Bubba, Dad, Father, Ol' Man. He liked whatever you called him, as long as you were there to call him something. During the 60's, he was preoccupied somewhat while building a business. After successfully climbing that mountain, he turned his attention to his family in a big way. Although I am very saddened by his passing, I consider myself very fortunate to have been involved in his journey. Everything from his keen sense of humor to his drive to work hard and honest and fair dealings with everyone will forever inspire me as well as a lot of other people. He was a great man and will forever be an even greater memory. God speed Dad!
Tim and Tina Silvestri
May 1, 2008
Our deepest sympathies and condolences to the Bennett Family.
Bob was a great pioneer and inspiration to the business world and the many lives he touched.Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
Ray Myer
April 30, 2008
To me, Bob is the quintessential patriarch of a successful American family. He was a force to be reckoned with as a friend and businessperson. You felt his presence whenever you entered one of his business establishments whether or not he was there. I have no doubt that this feeling will remain with us forever. Bob was tough but had a teddy bear heart. He could be gruff but his smile would light up a room. Bob knew what he wanted but also knew how to trust others to "make it happen." Rest in peace, Bob, and thanks for all the great memories.
Barry Marrs
April 30, 2008
In the course of ones life, it is rare to meet individuals with the wisdom, creativity, character, and drive that Bob exhibited!! In my 40 plus years in the industry, I can only identify a handful of men or women who made the contribution of Bob Bennett. On behalf of myself and the associates of Security Contractor Services, our heartfelt condolences to the Bennett family. I'm sure he will make his contribution to the "Pearly Gates" when he arrives.
Garry Oswald
April 30, 2008
I was deeply saddened to hear about Bob (although my deep respect for him only allowed me to call him "Mr. Bennett" whenever we met!) I first met Bob in 1978 when I worked for (Ken) McLeod Construction in Ventura. In my eyes, Bob was a true gentleman of the construction industry - a man of great character and strength, tough but always fair and honest and just a good down to earth person. Bob, you will be missed, but never forgotten. My sincere and deepest condolences go out to all of the Bennett family.
Suzanne Bennett Sagrati
April 30, 2008
He was my big brother..only ten months older than myself. I've never been without him or the thought of him. Used to tease him in the two months we were the same age that I was as old as he. Then as we grew older, I wasn't so glad to be. He was a wonderful fun loving boy who always thought up the fun that happened in the hayfield, barn or home. Great looks, great voice, great person. Love him dearly and always will. Sue
George & Dorene Sutton
April 30, 2008
We met Bob & Myrna when our daughter Holly married their son Steve. We were in their home on several occasions and they were always most gracious and in talking to Bob you could see where the kids got their business sense, which has served them very well. We have always thought what a legacy to have provided all your children with a good job in a family run company. We want Myrna and the family to know we have them in our prayers and to remember all the great family times. Love George & Dorene
Charlie & Kendra Larsen
April 30, 2008
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the entire Bennett family. Mr. Bennett was truly an icon in the fence industry and his legacy will continue though the organization that he built and the qualities that he inspired in those around him.
Maureen Young
April 30, 2008
Bob Bennett’s greatest gift was the sense of family he instilled in his children and grand-children. He taught them understanding and compassion and gave them the life skills to be caring managers. He taught them great work ethics and the personal integrity to be good leaders. He taught them to learn their trade from the bottom up, always seeking new ideas and new technology; to always produce a quality product. He leaves behind a loving family, satisfied business associates and repeat customers. A great legacy can only be a tribute to a great man. My love and prayers are with the family as always, Maureen.
Max Sasso
April 29, 2008
Bob was such a wise man that carried a fire and spark I will never forget. He will be sorely missed. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Bennett Family.
Ralph silva
April 29, 2008
No words can express the feeling of loss we have for our great leader and founder at the Fence Factory's,
Perimeter Security System's, Vinyl Craft, EED and C & W Construction Specialties. 12 Divisions in all. He had the vision, strength, confidence and knowledge to make it all happen. And most importantly he prepared for the furture and instilled the same values and buisness principles in his children to carry on the family business. I am sure that Bob has plans to improve the Gates of heaven and he is working on them now. We will all miss you. God Bless and Keep you Bob.
For the Family be STRONG AND COURAGEOUS, know that God is with you as he was with Bob.
May God bring you Peace and Comfort. Your Friend Ralph Silva
Brenda Hampton-Ortiz
April 29, 2008
My condolences to Bob's family. He was always a gentleman and was very kind to "the new girl" that bought superseal. May the Love of The Lord see you through this time of sorrow.
Don King
April 29, 2008
Our deepest, heartfelt condolences go out to the Bennett family. Bob was a great person and an inspirational leader of our industry. He leaves behind a legacy that will serve as a standard for those following him. From all of his friends at Master Halco, Inc.
cindy beckering
April 28, 2008
I will miss Bubba. A man with a dream and dedication. I will miss his smile. I will always cherish the love he gave to me. A man to admire. He was a inspiration to many. I knew him for 15 years he was a good husband and father, he tried tio spend every moment he can with his family, whether it was business or pleasure.He loved his wife Myrna, his children and his grandchildren and showed it every chance he could. His smile warmed my heart. His songs put laughter in my heart. bubba will be greatly missed in my life. Love you Bubba
cindy beckering
April 28, 2008
My memories of Bubba will always be in my heart. What a wonderful man a great husband and father. The 15 years I have known him I would not give up for the world. He was a inspiration to all of us who knew him. His smile would light up my world. His loving kindness I will never forget. He would spend as much time as he could with his family and enjoy every minute with them. There is so much I will miss about him mostly his love he gave me. cindy beckering
Betsy Sharpe Berry
April 28, 2008
My condolences to the entire Bennett family. I knew Bob during his Laceyville days, but didn't know we were almost neighbors in California. I went to a different school, but went to Methodist Church camp as well as sharing other small town activities and friends with Bob, his sister Susanne, and brother, Jack. I may even have a few snapshots in my album from those days. Bob's high school picture popped off the page this morning as I was reading the paper as it looks exactly as I remember him. I have lived in Agoura Hills with my husband Wade since 1975 and wish that we had known that we lived so close as it would have been good to have met as grownups and reminisced a bit about our Pennsylvania days.
Rick Stull
April 28, 2008
I am quite saddened to hear of Bob's passing. He was an extraordinary person in many ways. I learned a lot from him and his family in the ways of business and life. My sincere condolences go out to his entire family.
Mike and Cindy Campisi
April 28, 2008
Our deepest sympathies and condolences to entire Bennett family. Our prayers and thoughts are with you all during this difficult time.
Kathyrn Bennett/Vara
April 27, 2008
We will miss you Bubba! Uncle Bubba was the best and I'm sure anyone that knew him would say the same! There's so many moments and laughter he brought to our lives that will never be forgotten! I will see you some day in heaven Bubba. God Bless you!
Kim Bennett-Shimkus
April 27, 2008
My Uncle Bob aka Uncle Bubba was a funny, witty, smart man. He was an all business-just the facts kind of guy with a big heart. He will be missed by many!
Jeffery Ball
April 27, 2008
Eighteen years ago, I was frustrated with my employer, for not even considering me, for future supervision positions. When it was obvious I was not going to be given the chance, I started looking around. An ad in the paper, had me submiting an application for manager of one of the Fence Factory divisions. When iI was called for an interview, I got a hair cut, before meeting Bob. The interview went great. He wanted to give me a try. I would be leaving a job, with decent benefits, so Bob got out a pad of paper and worked the numbers, to make it worth the move. I told him it sounded good, but wanted to discuss it with my wife. He agreed, but wanted to know it I was going to get a haircut, and keep my hair shorter. I said sure, talked to my wife, an had my barber cut my hair again. Two week later, I was managing Perimeter Security Systems, with no previous mangement expeience.
In all of my previous employment, I have never met a man with so much passion for his company, integrety in business, and caring for his employees and family. There was nothing, business wise or personal, that you couldn't come to him to discuss. I watched his kids, all younger than me, learn and grow, so that they were all ready to move up and take up important positions in the company, and take over, when it was time for Bob to retire.
Anyone who knows the family knows that none of the above would have been possilbe, without Bob's wife Myrna, at his side. To have such a strong wife and mother, be also a great business partner, was Bob's advantage, over all others.
Bob, I appreciate all that you have done for me, and will never forget the business and life lessions that I learned from you. May God bless you, Myrna, and your family.
Mom & Dad together
April 27, 2008
Enjoy what you build!!
April 27, 2008
I did it MY WAY
April 27, 2008
Dan & Janet Allen
April 27, 2008
We are sorry to hear of your loss. May God's blessing and comfort be with you at this time.
Steven Bennett
April 27, 2008
We liked to call him Bubba, his sense of humor and love for family will be sorely missed. We hold our memories of him in our hearts and strive to honor him for his dedication and desire to make us all better. With all of the health issues he had, he never complained and never felt sorry for himself, he was an incredible role model for us, instilling character and values to all who worked with him.
Rest in peace Bubba, We Love you!!!
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