William "Bill" Thomas Bennett

July 23, 1934 — December 14, 2020

William (Bill) Thomas Bennett, 86, of St. Helen, Michigan, passed away on December 14th from COVID-19 complications, surrounded by his loving wife and family.

Bill was born on July 23, 1934 in Detroit to parents James Hollis Bennett and Irene Catherine Sanborn. He graduated from All Saints High School in Detroit, and served in the US Army, including time in Germany. Bill worked as a driver for the Kroger Company, where he met his bride Christine in 1958. He retired from Kroger after 42 years and relocated to St. Helen. He remained active both at home, gardening and canning, and outdoors, boating and hunting. He was happiest visiting and joking with family and friends, and playing with loyal dog Molly, and grand-dog Dakota. Bill loved his community and participated in the Labor Day Mackinac Bridge Walk for 25 consecutive years. He proudly served on the board of directors of the American Legion Post 416, where he enjoyed sharing stories and laughter with friends.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents James and Irene, and his siblings Barbara Magel of Kingsley and James Bennett of Traverse City. Bill is survived by his wife, Christine Hakalow of St. Helen, children Kenneth Bennett of Lincoln Park, Suzanne Sullivan (Scott) of Royal Oak, Gregory Bennett (Stephanie Baker) of Monroe, grandson Matthew Bennett of Monroe, sister Catherine Cook of Kewadin, and many beloved nieces and nephews.

A virtual memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 19, 2020 at 5:00 PM.

Register at the link below in advance for the service to receive the meeting link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEqcu2ppz0tH9Vvv5VndQ81b5tIvkVZ5Ozk

To avoid interruptions, please enter Zoom with the link below 5-10 minutes before the start time.

Memorial contributions can be made by check to the American Legion Post 416, 10062 Ford Drive, St. Helen, Michigan 48656.

A memorial service with veteran honors will be held on Saturday, August 21, 2021 at the American Legion Post #416 in St. Helen at 1:00 p.m.