Donald “Papa” Bennett shared his last moments with his family on February 7, in the comfort of his home. At 82, Don lived a full life.
Born June 17, 1930 in Louisville, to Benjamin Franklin and Elsie Bennett, Don began his adventure at full speed. He never missed a day of school, worked odd jobs to save money and graduated early from Ahrens Trade School. Don was hired and promoted to Typesetter at the Courier-Journal and Times, becoming the youngest journeyman in the trade.
Jane Washer moved into the house down the street and became Don’s one true love over cheeseburgers at Kaelin’s and late night “pictures.” They were wed on September 9, 1950 before Don left for Korea to serve in the Army’s 65th Engineers Battalion as a Master Sergeant. Upon returning home, Don and Jane built their dream home and had two children. Don served as Secretary-Treasurer for Southern Specialists and Southwestern Weekly, Co-Owner of Midtown Printers & Camera Graphics and held membership within the Graphic Arts Association and the Shively Gun Club. Operating his own businesses, Bennett Typesetting and then B&B Printing, until retirement, Don made time to hunt, fish, travel, watch boxing, enjoy E.T. and Rough River Lake. Don was a man of business and success – but his family always came first. His humor, work ethic (“five more minutes”) and love for others will be cherished.
Don was preceded in death by his beautiful wife, Jane Ellen, and his parents and sister, Audrey.
He is survived by his children, Benny Bennett (Theresa) and Vicki Lynn Campbell (Jeff) and Don Smith (Betty)- (a son-like nephew); grandchildren, Jeremy Campbell (Jenny) and Amie Jane Vaughn (Ryan); step-granddaughter, Lisa Kitchen; great-grandchild, Jenna Riley Campbell; multiple nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. Cheers to one more “half-drink,” Papa.
Funeral service is 12 p.m. Monday at Owen Funeral Home, 5317 Dixie Hwy with burial in Resthaven Cemetery
Visitation is 1 – 8 p.m. Sunday.
A special thanks to Hosparus and memorial gifts suggested to Juvenile Diabetes (JDRF).