E. Thomas Bennett

After 90 memorable years, CDR Tom Bennett passed away peacefully on 28 December, 2013.

Tom is survived by his loving wife, Carol; children, Larry (Carol), Cynthia Utt, and Joy

Palatucci (Peter), four grandchildren: Justin Bennett, Kelly (Josh) Valasek, Tanya Ward, Jason

(Katie) Palatucci and two great-grandsons: Spencer and Jackson Valasek.

Born and raised in Augusta, IL. Tom was signed to play baseball with the St. Louis Cardinals

but chose to enter the US Navy as an aviation cadet in 1942. As a decorated fighter pilot

in Korea and World War II, he served his country for 30 years. His tours of duty took him to

many countries; including serving as Air Operations Officer aboard the USS Randolph. He later served as the Program Manager at NAVAIRSYSCOM, Washington, DC in charge of the Hughes Aircraft Tow Missile Project and as Supply Officer at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard.

After retiring from the Navy, Tom worked for Cerberonics in Washington, DC. as a logistics

engineer. In 1986, after distinguished military and civilian careers, Tom and Carol found themselves an “island” where they enjoyed the next 27 years together golfing, boating and fishing in paradise. Tom enjoyed working around their homes in Florida and in the mountains of North Carolina where he and Carol spent summers with their faithful dog “Lucky” who loved his daddy.

It was Tom’s wishes that there be no public or private calling hours. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date with family and close friends. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wyliebaxleymerrittisland.com. The family requests any donations be made to the SPCA or your local humane society.

From our sight you have left us but you will never leave our memories or the love we have in our hearts for you. God speed Tom…..husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Once again, you have the “wind beneath your wings”. You will be sadly missed but joyfully remembered.