Don Bennett, 76, of Owensboro, KY passed away Thursday, March 28, 2019 at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, TN. He was born July 4, 1942 in Sorgho, KY to the late Herschel Griffith “Cotton” and Minnie Thelma Crabtree Bennett.
Don was a lifelong horseman who spent many a day at race tracks throughout the U.S., training thoroughbred race horses, including graded stakes winner, Acting Zippy. His horse related activities took him around the world to places a country boy from Daviess County could scarcely dream, including Thailand, Germany, Korea, Ireland and Turkey among many others. He lived his life on his own terms and was always true to himself and his family. He embodied Christian values, leading by example and compassion. His passing makes the world a little less thoughtful, a little less caring, a little less civil. He was a faithful friend that you could count on, despite all odds. He measured his success through all his family and thus was tremendously successful. His quick wit and storytelling ability were enjoyed by all who knew him.
In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by an infant sister, Betty Ann and brother, Billy.
He is survived by his loving and beloved wife of 53 years, Marian Ischer Bennett of Owensboro; sons, David and Alex (Jennifer), both of Louisville, KY; daughters, Laura (John) Shea of Ogdensburg, NY, Amy (Brett) Schmidt of Woodbury, MN and Emily (Bart) Kuegel of Gentryville, IN; ten grandchildren whom he loved dearly: Aidan, Jack, and Grace Shea, Elizabeth and Will Schmidt, Samuel and Bennett Kuegel, and Adam, Josh, and Sara Bennett. They will miss their “Buds” very much. Don is also survived by sisters, Shirley Robertson of Owensboro, Martha Hall of Ft. Wayne, IN and Kim King of Maceo; and a brother, David Bennett of Jamestown, OH.
A memorial service will be held at 6 PM, Tuesday, April 2 at Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory where visitation begins at 1:00 PM.
To the friends of our husband and dad, we are honoring Don’s wish for cremation. Thank you for your kind support and understanding.
It is suggested that any memorial contributions be made to Kentucky Race Track Chaplaincy, Christ Chapel, 700 Central Avenue, Louisville, KY 40208.
Memories and condolences for the family of Don Bennett may be shared at www.glenncares.com.