Bennett Bert Vandiver

Bennett was born on August 3, 1985, in Houston, Texas, a place that marked the beginning of a life defined by brilliance, movement, and heart. Though born in Houston, Bennett was raised across the state of Texas as the son of a devoted football coach, growing up in many communities along the way. His parents settled in Greenville, Texas, a place that remained part of his family's foundation. Each stop on his journey helped shape the remarkable young man he became adaptable, insightful, and deeply connected to those around him.

Bennett was a gifted student athlete receiving many honors throughout his high school years. He was valedictorian of his high school class, and attended Texas A&M at College Station for 3 years. He finished his senior year at Texas A&M Commerce graduating summa cum laude with a degree in technology management engineering. He worked at various companies throughout his career that specialized in making medical care devices which included injection molding to hospital beds.

Exceptionally intelligent and deeply driven, Bennett possessed a sharp intellect matched by an effortless wit. His mind was quick, curious, and expansive, and conversations with him were often filled with insight, humor, and thoughtful perspective. He was not only talented academically, but gifted in the way he understood people and the world around him.

Bennett was an exceptional cook who found joy preparing meals for his family and friends. Always insisting that the only proper way to cook a steak was in a cast-iron skillet. He was very proud of his daughter, Evie, with whom he shared a love of building intricate LEGO models. Together they bonded over their passion for the Star War series, creating memories as carefully crafted as the sets they built. Bennett was an avid golfer and cherished the time he spent hunting with his dad. On one of their trips, he shot a giant goose he affectionally named Zeus-an unforgettable trophy that he packed first every time he moved. Competitive by nature, Bennett loved games of every kind. He never missed Jeopardy, faithfully recording each one, so he could enjoy it later.

To know Bennett was to be warmed by his presence. He was a bright light-one whose energy, laughter, and ideas left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He carried himself with quiet confidence and an unmistakable spark, pushing himself to grow while encouraging others to do the same.

Bennett was preceded in death by his beloved grandmothers, Myrtle Vandiver of Pampa and Connie Fry of Pampa.

He is survived by his loving parents, Bert and Vicki Vandiver of Greenville, Texas; the light of his life and cherished Lego partner, his daughter, Evie Vandiver of Timnath, Colorado; his aunts, Nicki Gittemeier and her husband, Chick, of Pampa, Terri Wakefield of Spring, and Tammi Fry of Pampa; along with numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and close friends who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.

Though his life was far too brief, the impact he made was profound. He will be remembered for his intelligence, his drive, his humor, and the unmistakable light he brought into every room. His legacy lives on in the memories he created, the love he shared, and the many lives he touched along the way. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.