Jerry David Bennis

Jerry Bennis, our beloved husband, father, and brother passed away at his home, surrounded by friends and family, on August 5, 2023 from cancer. Jerry’s family and friends remain in awe of his continued positivity and exuberance for life, even when things got difficult. His laugh, sweet smile, and sense of humor will be missed by all who knew him.

Jerry was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He spent his childhood and early teens in Miami, Florida with his brother Ron & sister Lori-Ann, before later relocating to Virginia, his siblings following his trail. After a short stint in the United States Air Force, he spent most of his years working for the Department of Defense and then retiring from the government. He spent the remainder of his working years with Northrup Grumman before officially moving to retirement and beginning his new life of fun and adventure.

Jerry treasured his many roles as a loving husband, a caring father, silly grandfather (GPa), and loyal brother. Additionally, with his generous spirit and love of adventure, he became a friend to so many. Outdoors was one of his greatest joys. He especially loved his role as ‘professional’ ski bum throughout the years. You can’t buy happiness, but buying a lift ticket was pretty close! When he wasn’t making fresh tracks in the powder, you could find him swinging a club on the lush green grass of a golf course, listening to the calming crash of the ocean waves, or basking in the view from a freshly hiked trail. He also loved live music and volunteered as an Usher for 10 years at Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts, where he was a treasured member of the volunteer staff. Traveling the world and sharing experiences with family brought great joy to Jerry and his wife Liz Ardoin. Their marriage was filled with happiness, love, and exploration.

While Jerry’s life was filled with adventure and fun, he was most proud of his children, Aaron & Kara, and his two grandchildren, Kyleigh & Konnor. Watching their lives take on success and happiness was ultimately his greatest joy.

Jerry was preceded in death by his sister Lori-Ann Lallmang, mother Penelope Kelly and father, Jack "Rubin" Bennis. Jerry is survived by his wife Liz Ardoin, his two children Aaron Bennis (Shelly), Kara Bennis (John Palmgren), brother Ron Bennis (Patricia), grandchildren Kyleigh & Konnor Bennis, his step-son Stephen Mayer, and his former spouse Karen Bennis.

Jerry will be dearly missed by his family and friends. As a promise to Jerry, his family will honor his life and legacy by continuing to live life to the fullest and enjoy every moment, and to occasionally misbehave in nice restaurants . A celebration of life will be scheduled at a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donating to the Prostate Cancer Foundation in Jerry’s name.