William “Bill” Garrett Bennett of La Crosse, WI passed away at his home with his wife and sister-in-law, Judy at this side on November 11, 2017.He was born in Oneida, IL on February 2nd, 1943 to Walter Limley and Naoma Marie (Sharrah) Bennett.
He is survived by his wife, Susan. Sons, Brad (Rachael) Greg, Daughter, Jennifer; Sisters: Peggy (Mike) Kraynak, Joan Peterson, Harriett (Carl) Ewing and Eva Bainbridge; brothers, Norman and Larry; Grandchildren: Olivia (Joe) Grieving, Tabitha (Jesse) Smith, Samuel Bennett, Nathan Bennett, Nicholas Simpson, Vivienne Bennett, and Vincent Bennett. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Rex, Walter, Jr., and Robert; sister, Patty; and Brother-in-law, Charles Peterson.
Bill graduated from ROVA High School in 1961/1962 and attended Carl Sandburg College. He proudly served his country as an 82nd Airborne Paratrooper from 1962 – 1965. He worked various jobs before making a career with the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad as a conductor. He retired with 30 years of service in 2004.
Bill married Susan on November 15, 1990. They had no children but enjoyed spending time with friends and their children. They spent many relaxing day fishing and traveling together. Bill had a young spirit. Many enjoyed his company and loved listening to his adventurous life stories. He loved singing, listening to music, laughing and making others laugh. He was a social person and no one was a stranger around him for long.
He enjoyed doing many outdoor activities, spending peaceful river moments in the sun on his deck. He loved playing card, watching and playing baseball and was a diehard CUB fan
He loved fishing, hunting, golfing, boating and riding his bike. You could also catch his playing poker at the casino. Bill loved life and lived life to the fullest. He will be deeply missed by his wife and soul mate, Susan, family, friends and all who knew him.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. on Thursday, November 16, 2017 at the Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Homes & Crematory in Oneida, IL. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, November 17, 2017 at the Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Homes & Crematory in Oneida, IL with Rev. Scott Cramer officiating. Interment will be a the Oneida Cemetery in Oneida, IL with Military Rites conducted by the Rylander-Milroy American Legion Post #727. Memorials contributions may be made to the Family or Charity of the Donor’s Choice. A Memorial Services will be held in La Crosse, WI at a later date. Online condolences or Expressions of Sympathy may be made through www.hurd-hendricksfuneralhome.com.
