Robert W. Bennett, 67, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, formerly of Lisbon and Mount Vernon, passed away on Friday, March 18, 2022, of pancreatic cancer. Family and friends will gather for a visitation from 4-7 p.m. followed by a funeral service at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, March 23, 2022, at Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services, Mount Vernon. Private family burial at the Rock Island National Cemetery.
Survivors include his wife, Kathy Cook-Bennett; mother, Zella Jo Bennett; siblings, Becky Bunting, John Bennett, Jim (Vicky) Bennett, David Bennett, Donnie Bennett, and Nancy Goodale; step-children, Adrina, Andrea, Edward, Erin, Eric, and Edmund; step grandchildren, Melody, Majesty, Edward Jr., Na'sir, Adriyah, and Adraniece; 14 nieces and nephews; and 21 great nieces and nephews.
Bob was born on May 14, 1954, in Cedar Rapids, the son of Dean Willard and Zella Jo (Long) Bennett. He grew up in Lisbon, actively participating in music, theater, and school sports especially wrestling and football. Bob graduated from Lisbon High School in 1972, and soon after joined the US Navy as a storekeeper. He traveled the world aboard the USS Barry and continued his love of sports playing softball.
Upon honorable discharge, Bob returned to the area where he worked a short time for James W Bell, before joining his family legacy in painting and wallpapering. He worked for the family business, Model Painting, and many others including Broulik Painting. Bob was a masterful perfectionist with a very strong work ethic.
He was married for a short time to Lolita Stevens, later divorcing. On September 9, 2019, Bob married Kathy Cook. He was a longtime Cubs fan, and member of Painters Local 447, Federated Church and the Solon American Legion. Bob will be lovingly remembered for his kind heart and desire to take care of others before himself.
Bob was preceded in death by his father, Willard Bennett; niece, Kelsey Bennett Knoke, sister-in-law, Denise Hanna-Bennett; brother-in-law, Richard Goodale; and father-in-law, Charles Cook.
Memorials may be directed to the family.
The family extends a sincere thank you to UnityPoint St. Luke's Hospice and Amy Bennett for their compassion care in Bob's final days.
We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services – Mount Vernon
I have been friends with Kathy for a few years and she would talk about her Wonderful man and one day she and I were excited that I was finally going to meet him we were putting groceries away and then I hear Deb, Deb Glackin and I was shocked been about 25 years since I was called that . Bob said Deb Glackin from Lisbon right I said ya he said it’s me Bob Bennett I remember watching you play in the dirt with rocks and sticks. I said OMG and gave him a hug. I couldn’t believe he knew me , I had not seen him since I was Like 8 yrs old. It’s definitely a small world and I’m thankful I was able to get back intouch with Bob. He has never changed, always had a good heart. I will never forget you Bob. And thank you Kathy, I’m so glad you two have been together for a lot of years you were made for each other. Love you My friends
Bob was a member in my class and I knew him all through school. When I worked at Mercy, I would run into him in the hall when he was working for Broulik. It was always fun to touch base with a fellow classmate. Even though we were never close, I am sad to see that he will not be able to attend our 50th class reunion this year. My sympathies go out to all of his family in this very sad time. Terry McHenry Hoy, Clarence, IA
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Love Mike & Jayme Taylor, Bill & Barb Morgan, Barry & Lynn Phurrough and Pat and Pam Taylor
With love and respect from TURNER FAMILY. at Lazy Bear Ranch Mout Vernon Iowa
You’re a good man, and a special friend. I took your advice, and it was the best decision I every made… Thx Bobby…Sent with love and remembrance.
bob you were always a great person to discuss politics,religion,entertainment and just about anything else going on in the world and locally and though we didn’t always agree on everything we could still laugh about it later – I’m glad I knew you in this life and wish you the best in your next peace be with you. Gary Erenberger & family