Bennett, Orrin S. – 1950–2011

BENNETT, BLYTHE, JOHNSON, SAMSON, THOMPSON

Posted By: JCGS Volunteer
Date: 6/20/2011 at 18:32:20

Orrin Steven Bennett, 60, died June 10, 2011 at the Newton Health Care Center.
Per his wishes, his body will be given to the University of Iowa Deeded Body Program for study and learning. Memorial services will be held on Tuesday, June 14, 2011, at 10 a.m. at the Prairie City Church of the Brethren, with lunch following. The family will also greet friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, June 13, 2011, at Coburn Funeral Home in Prairie City. Memorials may be directed to the Prairie City Church of the Brethren, Hospice of Jasper County or to the family to be used at the family’s discretion. Condolences may also be left for the family at www.coburnfuneralhomes.com.
Orrin was born August 10, 1950, to Robert and Lela (Thompson) Bennett in Grinnell, Iowa. He grew up in Reasnor and graduated from Monroe High School in 1969. Orrin was passionate about many things: the family he had with Deb since their marriage in 1972, the love of his children and grandchildren, loyal friendships, NFL football (especially the Vikings), a strong work ethic, high school wrestling, healthcare for all people, knowing the time and weather, a good laugh, quality education, a fierce card game, compassion for marginalized people, deep faith in God, and cherry pie!
In 1979, he was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis which gave him many, many physical challenges through the years. But his strength and stubbornness prevailed! He was committed to getting out of bed every day and living the joys and pains of life to the fullest. He was thankful to remain at home in Prairie City almost until the end with Deb’s love and care and the services of Jasper County Public Health Care. His family is aware this was possible only by the grace of God through the love and commitment of the friends and community which surrounded them, especially the Prairie City Church of the Brethren to which he belonged. While not perfect, Orrin was a very giving person who cared about relationships until the very end. Thank you to all who took time to visit him, pray for him and stay in touch through the years.
Earlier in his life, Orrin was a superintendent at and retired from Prairie City Concrete then Cretex Corporation. He was a member of the Prairie City Lions, and served as a Boy Scout troop leader. Recently, he delighted in the proud work of being GRANDPA!
He is survived by his wife, Deb, of Prairie City; son, Justin Bennett, of Des Moines; daughter and son-in-law, Melissa Bennett and Dean Johnson, and two grandsons, Jude and Oliver, all of Fort Wayne, Indiana. Also surviving are his mother, Lela, of Newton; and five siblings: Jennet (Skip) Johnson of Surprise, Ariz., Kenneth (Deanna) Bennett of Ira, Karen Bennett of Newton, Betty (Jim) Samson of Newton, Donna (Pat) Blythe of Reasnor; and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his father, two nieces, and three nephews.
Source: Newton Daily News; Monday, June 13, 2011