Michael G. Bennett

Mike Bennett, age 53, passed away suddenly after a massive heart attack on August 4 after a wonderful vacation in Las Vegas and a great evening celebrating his 35th class reunion. Mike was born, raised and lived in New Franklin, graduating from Manchester High School in 1989.

He is survived by his loving wife of 32 years, Phyllis Bennett, son, Gunn, daughter Michaela, granddaughter Gracie and grandson Austin. Also left to mourn this incredible loss are his parents Grant and Sue Bennett, father-in-law Joe Golden, brothers Bob (Gina) and Steve (Jaimie) and their children, Bo (Chelsea), Brittany Matteo (Andy), Rylee, Haylee and Brody and brother-in-law Harvey (Bridgett) Golden and their children, Ian, Hannah and Adeline. Mike was loved by and will be sorely missed by many loving aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. 

Mike was preceded in death by his grandparents, Grant and Bessie Bennett and Okey and Thelma Fought, mother-in-law Anna Golden, uncle Ben Fought, aunts Barb Jones and Mary Ann Fuller, cousins Cathy Grove and Lisa Tripp. 

An accomplished athlete, Mike lettered and excelled in football and basketball at Manchester and was inducted into the Athletics Hall of Fame in 2017. He was the owner of Bennett Epoxy Floors for 18 years, beautifying homes and businesses with beautiful flooring in the area for more than 30 years. 

Mike loved to travel with Phyllis finding new things to do and good food to eat, whether it was at Hell’s Kitchen or a kiosk in a mall two hours away! From kayaks, to pickle ball to riding slingshots, Mike was always on the hunt for an adventure at home or wherever he could find a challenge and some fun! Mike loved Vegas, Michigan and the B-Hole Pavilion he built in his back yard, putting green included!

Mike’s presence was larger than life. Mike loved his family with every part of his “Big Ben” being. He was so supportive of everyone he loved. He was as generous with his love as he was with his opinions. Mike impacted so many people in his life and he leaves a hole in the hearts of all who loved him.

To celebrate Mike’s life, services will be held at Hopkins Lawver Funeral Home on Canton Road in Ellet. Calling hours are on Friday, August 9 from 1 – 3 pm and 5 – 7 pm with the service to follow at 7 pm with his cousin Pastor Mark Phillips officiating.