Leonard Bennett

Leonard E. Bennett, "Gene", of Erie died on Saturday December 26, 2014 in Lafayette CO. A Celebration of Gene's life will be held on Saturday January 3 at 1:00 p.m., at the Crist Mortuary 3395 Penrose Place, Boulder. Military Honors will be provided by the United States Navy. A reception will follow.

Gene was born December 1, 1927 in Pueblo CO to Vivian and Margery (Stoner) Bennett. He grew up in Waterloo Iowa and graduated from University of Northern Iowa.

Gene served in the United States Navy during WWII and Korea. Gene was a Business Teacher in Rifle CO for 30 years at the time he retired. After retirement Gene traveled extensively while living abroad and working for the Department of Defense teaching in Iceland and Turkey then moving to Kentucky before returning to CO to live and retire in Beulah followed by Erie.

Gene was an Honorary Life Member of Rifle Elks Lodge #2195. In addition to serving his lodge as Exalted Ruler and the Colorado Elks Association as State President he served the Grand Lodge as a member of the Lodge Development Committee, and the Youth Activities Committee and as Grand Treasurer.

Gene is survived by his wife Jane, Erie CO, sons Bob of Loveland CO, Scott of Rifle CO, and Ted of Grand Junction CO and step daughter Gail and her husband Peter of Boulder; three granddaughters Brianna, Danielle and Ella.

Contributions in lieu of flowers can be made to The Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keenesburg CO.

Please share thoughts, memories and condolences at www.cristmortuary.com