Kenneth Robert Bennett

Passed away Tuesday, November 2, 2021 in Ann Arbor. Ken was born April 16, 1946 in Sault Ste. Marie, MI the son of Kenneth and Anne (Crawford) Bennett. He was a veteran who served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. Ken entered the Navy as he graduated Mt Eden High School in Livermore Ca. He could spend sun up to dusk fishing, it was his favorite lounging activity. To do so on the Raber Bay in the Upper Peninsula, his ideal. The community held for him many family members and family reunions were memorable festive occasions whenever he was present. In his lifetime he resided in California, Michigan, Ohio and Florida. He ventured into a career of sales being first employed on return from Vietnam by Occidental Insurance. He then managed a branch in East Lansing for Safety Kleen. This automotive related job led to his employment with Kelly Distributing headquartered in Jackson MI. Initially a delivery route driver, his competitive nature thrust him into route sales and branch warehouse manager positions. Ken enjoyed his sales position with Kelly and as the company transitioned by name he became a Vesco and then Lyden Oil sales representative. This passionate MSU and all Detroit sports fan was fortunate to watch his Spartans take down the Wolverines just hours before his passing. He managed to draw into his circle those MSU leaning nurses and doctors. They peered into his room throughout the afternoon and great jubilation ensued as the clock ticked away. On June 5, 1981 he was united in marriage to Lucille (Chlystek) who survives. Also surviving are his children, Tammy Somers, Barb (Sean) Sisler, Tim (Angie) Tracey, Robert (Katie) Bennett; 7 grandchildren; brothers, Tom (Mary) Bennett and James (Virginia) Bennett. Preceding Ken in death are his parents and Tammy's mother, Sue Thorne. Services will be held at 11:00am Tuesday, November 9 at St. Catherine of Siena, 1150 W. Centre in Portage. Friends may meet the family from 5:00-7:00pm Monday at the Langeland Family Funeral Home, 3926 South 9th Street, Kalamazoo, MI 49009 where the Rosary will be recited Monday evening at 7:30pm. Friends may also meet the family on Tuesday at the church from 10:00-11:00am prior to the service. Burial will be in Ft. Custer National Cemetery at 1:00pm Tuesday following the funeral service. Memorials may be directed to the Fisher House in Ann Arbor. To view Ken's personalized webpage, please visit https://www.langelands.com