Charles W. 'Bill' Bennett

ASHLEY FALLS — Charles W. “Bill†Bennett, 82, died Jan. 23, 2009, at Fairview Hospital in Great Barrington.

Born Dec. 2, 1926, in Torrington, he was the son of Ella (Mott) and Charles Bennett. He attended The Gilbert School.

A veteran of World War II, Bill enlisted in the Navy on Oct. 11, 1944. During his service he received the American Theater Medal, the Asiatic-Pacific Medal and the World War II Victory Medal.  He was honorably discharged on May 13, 1946.

After being discharged, Bill married  Blanche Stevens on Jan. 18, 1947, at her family home in Sheffield. The couple bought a home in Ashley Falls, where they have lived for the past 62 years.

Bill worked at the W.B. Dyer Plumbing Company in Norfolk for many years before purchasing the business in 1984. He sold the company in 1989 when he retired. He spent many happy years caring for his home, Sheffield Grange, Ashley Falls Cemetery and the Trinity Methodist Church in Ashley Falls.

He loved his many nieces, nephews and cousins. He had a special place in his heart for his great-niece, Bethany.  Most of all, Bill loved his wife, Blanche.

An active member of the community, Bill was a member of the Trinity Methodist Church in Ashley Falls for more than 60 years. He was a member of the Sheffield Grange No. 224 for 35 years, as well as a member of the Sheffield American Legion, Post No. 340, the Sheffield Historical Society, Trustees of Reservations, the National Rifle Association, the Ashley Falls Cemetery Association and the Ashley Falls Improvement Society.  Bill gave so much of his time and talents to all.

In addition to his wife, Bill is survived by his sister, Norma Storrs of Arkville, N.Y., and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by three sisters and two brothers.

Funeral services were held Jan. 27 at Finnerty and Stevens Funeral Home in Great Barrington, the Rev. Jill Graham officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to either the Southern Berkshire Volunteer Ambulance Squad or to the Sheffield Volunteer Fire Department through Finnerty and Stevens Funeral Home, 426 Main St., Great Barrington, MA 01230.  

Remembrances, memories and reflections may be sent to the family through finnertyandstevens.com.

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