Willis Bennett

Willis Sonny Duane Bennett

01/19/1942 - 01/31/2023

Willis Sonny Bennett 81, of Santa Maria, California courageously passed away January 31, 2023. Sonny was born in Salina, Kansas on January 19,1942 where he lived until 1989, moving to Santa Maria, California that same year.

Sonny was a proud member of IBEW electrical union starting in 1977. After the Bennett family moved to California, Sonny worked as a civilian electrician for Lockheed Martin, securing the highest base wide security clearance at Vandenberg Air Force Base, retiring in 2010. Sonny was grateful for his work, his colleagues and valued his years at Vandenberg. He always looked at his time there with great pride.

From the time Sonny was a child to his 81st birthday, he had some type of motor racing in his life. From cars, motorcycles and drags, if it was fast, he loved the thrill. He spent many Saturday nights at the Salina Raceway in Kansas and the Santa Maria Raceway in Nipomo, Ca. In Kansas, he was the electrician for the Salina Raceway. His experience kept the track properly lit for the upmost safety for the drivers. His red 1937 Ford hot rod, Harley motorcycle and Harley pickup truck satisfied his need for speed.

He also loved classic westerns and could tell you the names of every actor, when the movie was made and where it was filmed. He was an encyclopedia of western tv shows and movies. His favorite was John Wayne.

Sonny's six grandchildren were the pride and joy of his life. He loved them to the moon and back. They will forever hold him and all the beautiful memories in their hearts.

Sonny is celebrated and cherished by his wife of 60 years, Shirley Elaine Hanson Bennett. His children Terri Lynn Bennett Keys, Todd Duane Bennett and Tyler Hanson Bennett. Son-in-law, Rusty Keys, daughter-in-law, Tami Wilson Bennett. His grandchildren, Madison, Jordan, Tayler, Jenna, Austin and MaKayla. His Brother Terry Bennett and sister's, Karen Gomez and Lana Moran.

Sonny is preceded in passing by his parents Willis Dave Bennett and Belva Ingram Bennett. Brother's Ronnie Bennett, Kenny Bennett and Mother-in-law Lucille Hanson Bourbina.

In keeping with our Dad's request, there will be no services or memorial.

Visit www.dudleyhoffmanmortuary.com to leave a condolence for the family.