Ian Douglas Bennett

Suddenly, at the home he loved on Monday October 30, 2023. Loving husband and best friend to Lorraine. Adoring father to his 3 “cherubs” Antony (Vanina), Kyle (Rachel) and Demmy Chianalino (Chris). Proudest Grandad to Aria, Lyra, Dylan, Lucas, Flynn, Arlo and Leo. Beloved son of Eileen and the late Billy. Annoying and much-loved baby brother to John (Tracey), Sue (Steve Hancocks), and the late Linda Roberts. Predeceased by mother-in-law Margaret Forgie, and fondly remembered by father-in-law Frank Skiller, sister-in-law Lynn Welsh (Mark), and by his nieces and nephews.

Ian was born in The New Forest, Hampshire, England on September 6, 1966. He served his country as an Infantry Soldier in the British Army, Princess of Wales Royal Regiment (The Tigers). His service included tours in Northern Ireland and Kosovo. He was incredibly proud of being a Soldier and spoke often and lovingly of his military days. Sargeant Bennett spent his last years with the Army in the Recruiting Office, where with great talent and passion he inspired young people embarking on their dreams.

In spite of the adversities that life brings at times Ian was always jolly (sometimes with the help of a Guinness). His advice to someone stressing about something was usually “Yeah, but can it make you pregnant?” He was an absolute icon, and his words and expressions have been widely adopted by his circle of friends, (or as he called them, Mates) that are more like family; mainly “Alright love don’t go on about it” and “Tinny love” obviously said in Ian’s New Forest accent. Besides his family, his 3 greatest loves were his Southampton Saints, his dogs and boating on Lake Simcoe. He had the biggest, kindest, sweetest heart which in the end, gave out on him. The world will forever be dimmer without his light.

A celebration of Ian’s life will be held on Saturday, November 4, 2023 from 2-5 pm at the Lake Simcoe Arms, 21089 Dalton Rd. Sutton. Flowers gratefully declined. Instead, be kind and make someone laugh today.

Rest Easy Tiger