James Bennett

James Lee Bennett, 83, passed away at his home in Wickenburg on Thursday, July 23, 2010 from the ravages of Alzheimer's disease. Jim was born on June 19, 1927 in Whittier, California. During his last days he was lovingly cared for by his wife, Hartley, and sons, Jim, Michael, and Daniel. Jim is also survived by brothers Randall and Dennis, daughters-in-law Kathleen Bennett and Diana Bennett, and grandchildren Jennifer Majors, Carin Sherman, Jacob Bennett, Chris Bennett, Sydney Bennett, Kailey Bennett, and great-granddaughter Bailey Ann Majors. Jim cherished his marriage. His children and grandchildren were all special gifts that he felt were his greatest legacy. He had many talents and passions; art, home construction, hunting, reading, enjoying his garden and the Arizona desert. He was a true product of the "depression years", blessed with ingenuity, honest decency, inspired creativity and love of simple things. Jim served in the Army during World War II. Following his discharge he alternated land surveying with elementary school teaching. When his health began to decline and it was necessary for him to leave active employment, he helped raise his eldest granddaughter, Jennifer, and designed and built his home in Wickenburg. He was a man of deep compassion, wry wit and possessed a booming laugh that was contagious. He loved teaching his children and grandchildren gun safety and poker and was so proud of them and their accomplishments. He was mentor, best friend and lover and will be tremendously missed by all especially his wife of 52 years, Hartley. The family's deepest thanks go to Hospice of the Valley for their love and caring during the last year of Jim's life. A private memorial service will be held at a later date. Interment will be in the Memorial Garden at St. Alban's Episcopal Church in Wickenburg. Donations in Jim's name can be made to Hospice of the Valley or to the Wickenburg Humane Society.