Graham Nolan Bennett

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Graham Nolan Bennett on October 28, 2024, in Commerce Township, Michigan. Graham was born in Detroit, Michigan on May 11, 1934, and spent his formative years in Livonia, Michigan. He leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication.

Graham is survived by his devoted wife, Nancy; his sister, Donna Naidow (Ralph); his children, Steve Bennett (Kevin), Ann Bennett, and Jodi Michela (Michael); and his cherished grandchildren, Nicholas Michela (Taylor) and Rebecca Michela. Also remembered are the many Sister and Brothers-in-Law and Nieces, Nephews and Great Nieces and Great Nephews who Graham loved to visit. He is preceded in death by his parents, Jesse and Jean Bennett, and his grandchild, Hannah Michela.

From an early age, Graham had a natural talent for engineering, always eager to understand how things worked. This curiosity led him to a successful career at General Motors, where he dedicated over 30 years to designing machinery for the manufacture of automobiles, retiring in 1997. His contributions have left an enduring mark on the automotive industry.

Graham's true passion lay in the great outdoors and traveling. Shortly after purchasing a motor home, he and Nancy joined a camping club, embarking on countless adventures across the United States. These family trips provided treasured memories, and even after their children grew up and moved away, Graham and Nancy continued to explore, often finding solace in the beauty of Pigeon Forge and the Great Smoky Mountains. Equally enjoyable were the many trips to Canada, where Graham had many extended family members. He grew up spending summers in Ontario, working alongside his cousins on his Uncle Howard and Aunt Maude's as well as his Uncle George and Aunt Sigga's farms.

Known for his generosity and willingness to help others, Graham spent many of his retirement hours as a dedicated member of the Wixom Historical Society, particularly at the Wixom-Wire house. His love for social activities and nature persisted into his later years, where he enjoyed daily visits to Kensington Metropark with Nancy.

Graham's kindness, sense of adventure, and unwavering support will be dearly missed by all who knew him. In lieu of flowers or cards, the family invites any who would like to do so, to contribute to the commemoration of a bench at Kensington Metropark in his honor, a place where he found so much contentment in the presence of nature.

Fundraiser by Ann Bennett : Tribute to Graham Bennett: Kensington Park Bench