Gary Don Bennett

Gary Don Bennett, "Mr. B", was born in Dimmitt, Texas in 1949. He grew up in a large blue-collar family in Kansas City, KS, enveloped in the love for music, adventure and hardworking morals. He acquired his pilot's license at 16, and by 18, met and was later married to Terri Kay Wagenknecht for thirty-three cherished years. At 21, he joined the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 101 and ran heavy equipment for over 30 years. He was very active in and a staunch supporter of Union brotherhood, furthering his career as a respected Dispatcher, Office Manager, elected Recording Secretary and Business Agent within Local 101. He was a member of the Raytown Masonic Lodge #391. He enjoyed raising two active sons, the companionship of six dear sisters, his Union friends and his loving wife "TK". After her untimely death in 2003 from cancer, he continued on in hope with unending courage, optimism and vision - affirming the cornerstones of his life's legacy. Touched by destiny, he met and was deeply captivated by Linda Abel (preceded by husband Milt Abel) in 2009, who shared his love for music, partnership, and life's mysteries. He relished his last years with Linda in romance, and built further irremissible bonds with grandchildren, close family and new friends. Gary died on February 28, 2012 at the age of 62. He is preceded by Theresa Kay Bennett, father Bobby Hiram Bennett and mother Ellouese Upton. He leaves behind devoted wife Linda Erwin Abel of KCMO, sons Cody (Karla) Bennett of Shawnee, KS, Calvin Bennett of Brooklyn, NY, and Milton Abel II of Copenhagen, DK, and daughters Elisha Dominick, Columbia, SC, and Chloé Abel of Denver, CO; also 6 beloved sisters Kay Clark (Steve), Karen Rehm, Karol Bennett (Anthony Brandt), Kathy Breen, Katrina Bennett, and Karla Backlund, many loved nieces and nephews and 3 adoring grandchildren. Visitation will begin at 3pm on Sunday, March 4th, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 5pm at the McGilley & Hoge Chapel, 8024 Santa Fe Drive, Overland Park, KS 66204.