Charles W. Bennett, 82
SHEFFIELD, Mass. — Charles W. "Bill" Bennett, 82, of Ashley Falls died Friday, Jan. 23, 2009, at Fairview Hospital in Great Barrington.Born in Torrington, Conn., on Dec. 2, 1926, son of Charles and Ella Mott Bennett, he attended Gilbert High School in Winsted, Conn. He had lived in Ashley Falls for 62 years.
A Navy veteran of World War II, he enlisted on Oct. 11, 1944, and received the American Theater Medal, the Asiatic-Pacific Medal and the World War II Victory Medal. He was honorably discharged on May 13, 1946.
Mr. Bennett was employed by W.B. Dyer Plumbing Co. in Norfolk, Conn., for many years before purchasing the business in 1984. He sold the company in 1989 when he retired.
He was a member of Trinity Methodist Church in Ashley Falls for more than 60 years. Active in the community, he was a member of Sheffield Grange 224 for 35 years, as well as a member of the Sheffield American Legion Post 340, the Sheffield Historical Society, Trustees of Reservations, the National Rifle Association, the Ashley Falls Cemetery Association and the Ashley Falls Improvement Society. He gave much of his time and talents to all. He took great pride in the care of the Ashley Falls Cemetery and Trinity Methodist Church for many years. He spent many happy years caring for them, as well as his home and the Sheffield Grange.
He and his wife, the former Blanche Stevens, were married on Jan. 18, 1947, at her family home in Sheffield.
Besides his wife, he leaves a sister, Norma Storrs of Arkville, N.Y., and many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins. He had a special place in his heart for his grandniece Bethany, but loved his wife most of all.
He was predeceased by three sisters, including Carol Green, and two brothers.
FUNERAL NOTICE — Funeral services for Mr. Bennett will be conducted Tuesday, Jan. 27, at 11 from Finnerty and Stevens Funeral Home in Great Barrington by the Rev. Jill Graham. The family will receive friends on Monday, Jan. 26, from 5 to 8 at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to Southern Berkshire Volunteer Ambulance Squad or the Sheffield Volunteer Fire Department through the funeral home, 426 Main St., Great Barrington, MA 01230. Remembrances, memories and reflections may be sent to the family through www.finnertyandstevens.com.