Edward was born on December 5, 1931, in Detroit, Michigan, to Edward Carl and Adelaide (née Serafin) Bentley. Raised in Detroit, he graduated from Pershing High School before proudly serving his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. Edward was stationed in Texas for two years, an experience he carried with pride throughout his life.
Following his military service, Edward dedicated his career to the family business, ABC Sporting Goods, which was originally established in Detroit before relocating to Warren. He worked alongside his father before taking over ownership of the business in 1974. Known for his strong work ethic and commitment to his customers, Edward remained at the helm until retiring at the age of 80 so he could lovingly care for his wife.
In 1955, Edward married the love of his life, Patricia Ann Cieslak. Together they built a beautiful life centered on faith and family, raising their children and sharing 65 wonderful years of marriage until Patricia’s passing on May 5, 2021.
Edward found great joy in spending time outdoors. He was an avid bowler and golfer and looked forward each year to spending time during the summer at the family cottage in Lewiston, Michigan. Whether he was out on the boat, casting a fishing line, or simply enjoying time with those he loved, those memories became some of his family’s most treasured. He also took immense pride in maintaining his homes, especially keeping a meticulously cared-for lawn, and enjoyed traveling to Florida to visit his daughter Cheryl's family.
A man of Catholic faith, Edward was a longtime member of St. Michael Catholic Church and an active member of the Father Kramer Knights of Columbus. His faith served as a guiding force throughout his life.
Above all else, Edward was a devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather, proud great-grandfather, and dear brother. He will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to his family, his generous heart, and his wonderful sense of humor. A natural jokester, he always found ways to bring laughter to those around him, leaving countless happy memories that will continue to be treasured.
Edward is survived by his daughter Cheryl Mizell and husband Dan Mizell of Palm Harbor, FL, daughter Lori Yervasi and husband Jim Yervasi of Harrison Township, MI, daughter Lisa Johnston and husband Tom Johnston of St. Clair Shores, MI, and son Craig Bentley and partner Frank Anthony Polito of Pleasant Ridge, MI; his granddaughter Falyn Weinert of Palm Harbor, FL, granddaughter Amanda Woeppel and husband Jesse Woeppel of West Palm Beach, FL, and granddaughter Olivia Johnston of St. Clair Shores, MI; and his great-grandchildren Finn Weinert and Ryder Weinert of Palm Harbor, FL, and Blake Lee Woeppel of West Palm Beach, FL. He is also survived by his sister Elizabeth Shiner, brother Richard Bentley and wife Beverly Bentley, and sister-in-law Sue Bentley.
Edward was preceded in death by his wife Patricia Bentley, his parents Edward C. and Adelaide Bentley, his sister Antoinette and husband Paul Newman, brother Kenneth Bentley, brother Martin Bentley and wife Marion Bentley, and brother-in-law Ronald Shiner.
Edward’s family will receive friends on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, from 3:00 PM until 9:00 PM at Resurrection Funeral Home, 40800 Hayes Road, Clinton Township, MI 48038.
He will lie in state on Thursday, July 2, 2026, beginning at 9:00 AM until the Funeral Mass at 9:30 AM at St. Michael Catholic Church, 40501 Hayes Road, Sterling Heights, MI 48313.
Edward will be laid to rest beside his wife, Patricia, at Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Township, MI.
Those wishing to make contributions in memory of Edward may do so to the Alzheimer’s Association. A link to donate online is included below.
