James Howarth Bennett

Passed away peacefully at home in Galt surrounded by his family Beloved husband of Helen Patricia Bennett nee Smith (Patsy) for 60 years. Dear father of Jamie Bennett (Marlene), Elizabeth Bennett, Alexis Bennett-Wheeler (Donald), Ada Belle Dukelow (Bill), Charles Bennett (Kelly). Much loved and admired Granddad to Kate Pinder (Luke), Michael Bennett (Halsey), Bennett Dukelow, Mackenzie Dukelow, Robert Bennett (Lauren), Jacob Bennett, Scott Bennett and Mathew Bennett. Brother to Cameron Bennett (Mary) and brother-in-law to Gordon and Carolynn Gittings. Favourite uncle and cousin to many relatives on both sides of the family. Predeceased by his parents James H. (Benny) and Ollie Bennett.

Jim was the proud and generous patriarch of his family who presided over the Bennett Compound on the shores of Lake Huron providing many fond and happy memories for Patsy, their children and grandchildren.

He first attended Dickson Public School where he met his childhood sweetheart Patsy in Grade 2. He then attended Blair Public School and Ridley College before graduating from Galt Collegiate Institute. After obtaining his Business Degree from the University of Western, Ontario, he joined his father at Bennett City Garage and became a successful and respected businessman as the President of Bennett Chevrolet-Oldsmobile Ltd. from 1967 until his retirement in 1997. Former Chairman of the GM Dealers Council and member of the Federation of Automobile Dealers Association; Charter Member of the Galt Rotary Club (Crippled Children's Chairman); Member of Galt Probus Club; Long time member of Bamberg Hunt Club; Life long member of Knox Presbyterian Church; Treasurer of the first Galt Humane Society and lifelong pet-lover particularly of his Westies, Buster and Ceasar; Worldwide traveller, lover of exotic places and Curator of the Museum at 26 Blenheim Road; Avid Blue Jays fan till the end. A close friend and mentor to many. He will be truly missed but had a life well-lived.

Arrangements for cremation and a private family funeral have been made. A Celebration of Life reception will be hosted by the family at a future date and place to be announced. Donations in his memory may be made to the local cancer charity of your choice.

The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the staff at CCAC, Red Cross PSW's, Para-Med Nursing, Senior Home Care by Angels, Dr. R. McCallum and all his doctors at London Health Sciences Hospital for their excellent care.