Richard (Rick) W. Bennett

MUNROE FALLS - Richard (Rick) W. Bennett, 73, passed away June 10, 2025.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Richard A. and Theorita (nee Wills) Bennett. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth (nee Barrett); children, Tonya (Randy Feller) May, Mechelle Bennett, Rebecca (Ryan) Clark, and Paul (Quinn) Bennett; eleven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Pastor Michael Swab will conduct services Friday, June 13, 2025, at 12 Noon, at the United Methodist Church in Stow, 4880 Fishcreek Road, Stow, 44224, where friends may call from 11 AM, until time of service.

Rick Bennett, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, passed away suddenly on June 10, 2025. His life was a testament to faith, hard work, and love, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew him.

The eldest of five children, Rick learned the value of hard work at a young age, helping with his father’s masonry business and assisting on the family’s apple orchard. These early experiences instilled a tireless work ethic that he carried throughout his life.

After high school, Rick pursued a degree in electrical engineering. Though the journey was long, balancing full-time work with evening classes, he never gave up. Determined and dedicated, he persevered in one class at a time.

Rick met the love of his life, Liz, through a mutual friend. Liz’s two young daughters did not deter him, instead, he embraced fatherhood wholeheartedly. In 1977, they married, and Rick became not only a devoted husband but also a loving father. Together, Rick and Liz welcomed two more children, building a life centered around family and later doting on their eleven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Rick’s faith was the cornerstone of his life. He strived to live in the example of Jesus, giving selflessly to his family and community. His kindness and generosity shone in his decades of volunteering. For over 40 years, he regularly visited nursing home residents, offering companionship to those in need. He also participated in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program during his college years and later devoted time to his local food pantry.

Rick found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. He loved playing guitar, often composing songs, and playing them for his grandchildren. A romantic at heart, Rick wrote heartfelt poems and love notes to Liz for every special occasion. He cherished his time spent outdoors hiking, camping, being near the water, and immersing himself in the beauty of nature.

In 2021, Rick was diagnosed with Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD), a cruel disease that stole parts of his personality and quality of life. The past few years brought challenges, but Rick’s strength and the love of his family endured. Though his passing was sudden, his family takes solace in knowing he was spared further pain and suffering.

Rick’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. His unwavering love, selflessness, and humor leave a legacy of warmth and inspiration that will never fade.

He will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration, AFTD, 2700 Horizon Drive, Suite 120, King of Prussia, PA 19406 ~ www.theaftd.org