Earl Bennett

Our beloved father Earl Ray Bennett, 86, passed away peacefully in his home on Wed July 15th, 2026, in the loving care of his family and friends. Born in Louisville on March 4th, 1940, he was the son of the late Charles Henry, Jr. and Anna Dittmeier Bennett.

During their dedicated marriage of 62 years, Earl and his wife Helen Lake Bennett created many beautiful memories, a family and a prosperous life together which took the family from Kentucky to Michigan and then back to retirement in Kentucky.

A mechanical engineer by trade and woodworker by hobby, Earl had a lifelong passion and natural ability for taking things apart, optimizing them and putting them back together again. Although his company nickname was ‘Grumpy’, he was always willing to fix anything for anybody. A lifelong employee of the Edge-Sweets Company, formerly Martin Sweets Co., retired after 45 years of service.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Abby Schweinhart, Carolyn Merrill, Ann Bennett, Dorothy Hommrich; and his brothers Charles "Junie" Bennett and Robert Bennett.

He is survived by his wife, Helen Bennett; children, Brad Bennett (Christine) and Brenda Sharp (Edwin III); sisters-in-law, Gloria Bennett and Martha Bennett; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life gathering for all friends and family will be held at a later date. Thanks to all his family, friends and neighbors for their love and support during this time.