Lance Evan Bennett, 71, was born November 7, 1954, in Fresno, California, and passed away March 21, 2026. Lance was a devoted, steady, and hardworking man whose life reflected deep loyalty to the people and pursuits he cared about most. A lifelong resident of Fresno, he remained closely connected to the community that shaped him from the beginning.
Born and raised in Fresno, Lance graduated from McLean High School in 1973. He began his professional life training as a licensed Audiologist, preparing to work alongside his father, Harry Bennett, who held over 50 patents for hearing aids. After his father’s passing, Lance transitioned into the paint industry, where his persistence and strong work ethic carried him into management roles with several companies. He concluded his career with General Coatings / Polycoat as an operations manager, working closely with manufacturing, shipping, and sales of roof coatings.
Lance was known for the genuine pride he took in his work and the care he showed to those around him. He loved his work, family, friends, cats, cars, watches, and clocks—interests that reflected both his warm heart and an appreciation for craftsmanship, precision, and the simple pleasures of daily life.
Lance is survived by his brother, Col. Bruce Allen Bennett; sister-in-law, Julie Bennett; and nieces Jennifer Ann France, Heather Elaine Bennett, Erin Colleen Bryce, and Megan Joann Bottoms. He was preceded in death by his father, Harry Bennett, and his mother, Bernice Mays.
A Funeral Service will be held at Stephens and Bean Funeral Chapel, 202 North Teilman Avenue, Fresno, California 93706, on April 9, 2026, at 12:00 pm. A Committal Service will follow at Belmont Memorial Park, 201 N Teilman Avenue, Fresno, California 93706, on April 9, 2026, at 1:00 pm. Pallbearers will be Larry Garabedian, Grant Montie, Will Lorenz, Sam Webb, Sam Bernal, and Nicholas Verburg.
Lance will be remembered with respect and gratitude for the life he lived—marked by dedication, quiet strength, and enduring affection for his family, friends, and the many things that brought him joy.
