Elvina Bennett

“Toots”

February 27,1923 - April 24, 2026

Elvina “Toots” Bennett, at age 103 passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on Friday April 24th, 2026. Toots was born in Ashland Wisconsin to the late Jon & Mable Peacy. Toots was blessed with a large loving family, which included 11 siblings and many farm animals. After graduating High school she made her way from Ashland, WI to Lake County Illinois where she met her first Husband Roy Paquette in the 1940’s. She had three sons during this time, Rodney, Doug and Bob Paquette. She enjoyed being outside any chance she could get. Reading books, baking, doing puzzles, gardening and attending plays were just some of her many hobbies. She had a heart of gold and would lend a hand to anyone who needed it. She was a long-time member of Millburn Church in Millburn Illinois where she was involved in many different events and activities throughout the years of her life. After divorcing, Elvina met her second Husband Benard Bennett in the 1960’s at McCormick's Restaurant where he was the Chef. They shared a daughter together, Shelley Buckholtz (Bennett). They became owners of Benards Restaurant in the Early 80’s until they closed in 1989. Toots then continued her waitressing at the Holiday Inn, in Gurnee, until her retirement in her late 80’s.

Toots was preceded in death by her Parents Jon & Mable Peacy, and her 11 Siblings followed by her First Husband Roy Paquette and Second Husband Bernard Bennett.

Her son Douglas Paquette & Daughter-in-law Linda. Her son Robert Paquette (Patricia). She is survived by her Two children Rodney Paquette (Linda) & Shelley Buckholtz (Richard). Followed by her Grandchildren Rob Paquette (Hahn), Marc Paquette (Kathy), Danielle Dulzer (Steve), Mandy Dwyer (Joe), Justin Paquette (Ann), Mike Paquette (Lynn), Joey Paquette (Heather), Tom Paquette, Dan Paquette, Jordan Zemanek (Emil), Jake Buckholtz. Great Grandchildren, Robin Dulzer, Tim Dulzer, Janine Wordette (Samantha), John Paquette, Sydney Dwyer, Colton Dwyer, Connor Paquette, Claire Paquette, Liam Paquette, Annabelle Paquette, Harrison Paquette and Lylah Paquette.

A visitation for Toots will be held on Friday, May 8, 2026, from 10:00am until the start of the memorial service at 11:00am at Marsh Funeral Home (305 N. Cemetery Road, Gurnee, IL).

In Lieu of Flowers, Memorial donations can be made out to Millburn Congregational Church. 19073 W Old Town Ct, Old Mill Creek, IL 60046