Date of Death: February 5, 2024
Service Details
Cremation has taken place. A memorial will be held at 3 Rivers Eagles 2303 (M-60 & E. Hoffman St., Three Rivers) on Monday, February 19, 2024 from 1:00-5:00 p.m.
Obituary Notice
James F. Bennitt, 75, of Three Rivers, went to be with his Lord Monday, February 5, 2024.
He was born August 1, 1948 to Edgar and Helene Bennitt in Muskegon, MI. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edgar and Helene Bennitt, and his sister, Jane Hall. He is survived by his wife of 55 years Mary; brother Blair (Peggy) Bennitt of Clark Lake; his three children, Amy Bennitt of Sturgis, Barbara (Daniel) Nees of Owosso, MI, and Steven (Katie) Bennitt of Townsend, MA; four grandchildren, Phoenix and Alexander James, Evelyn and Darcie; and several nieces and nephews.
He served in Vietnam with a preventive medicine unit and was a 30-plus year member of 3 Rivers Eagles 2303. He worked for General Telephone/Verizon for 30 years and was known for his exceptional work ethic.
He was a kind and caring husband and an amazing father and role model. Jim had a snarky wit that he passed along to his loved ones, who learned valuable lessons such as doing things you hate builds character, anything free is worth saving up for, TV should be watched the way God intended it to be … free!, and the key to a happy marriage is worship the ground she walks on.
He fought his battle with cancer with grace and courage. We will miss him greatly and carry his love in our hearts.
Additional Information
In lieu of flowers we suggest St. Joe County Area 18 Special Olympics. Envelopes will be available at the Eagles and at Hohner Funeral Home.
Please Leave Your Condolences
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Uncle Jim, you will be missed greatly. I will always remember your handshake and greeting at every family event, as I’m not one to initiate the handshakes and greetings at events. The hosting of annual Fourth of July parties were epic. It’s such a blessing that your last Fourth of July party saw all of us from Atlanta, Boston, and wherever all coming back for the gathering. Such a blessing.
Brother Jim will be deeply missed, as my older brother he looked out for me while we were growing up in Muskegon, but never missed an opportunity to pick on me. Nothing but fond memories of our annual 4th of July parties that he hosted for many years. A man of excellent character, love you, Jim.
Mary so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. Prayers for you and your family. With Deepest Sympathy. Les & Ev Flowers
I had the privilege of meeting Jim nearly 37 years ago. I have many fond memories, even though we did not get together very often.
Love and prayers for God’s peace that surpasses all understanding for all of his loved ones.
I am so sorry to hear about Jim. My heart goes out to his family. I still remember so many good times back when we all worked at KFC. Can’t believe how many years ago that was. Sending lots of hugs and prayers. I’m sure he will be missed.
Jim always had a dry sense of humor and often saw the humor in irritating or annoying circumstances, which could lighten up a difficult situation. I’ve known him since high school, and as my brother-in-law for all these years. We will miss him and his “snarky” sense of humor, as well as the gentle heart that he tried so hard to keep hidden. Lots of great memories will keep him with us always. R.I.P., Jim. May peace and comfort be with his wife, Mary, and their children, grandchildren, and extended family.
I remember him and am sorry he had to be sick with cancer.
He sure was appreciated as a Father and a husband.
I’m very sorry for the families loss. I worked with Jim for many years at the telephone company.