Chana – Larry Paul Bennett, 75, died Thursday, Nov. 5, 2020 at SwedishAmerican Hospital in Rockford.
He was born July 8, 1945 in Rochelle, the son of Paul and Mildred (Shrock) Bennett. He graduated from Stillman Valley High School in 1963.
Larry served his country in the U.S. Army during Vietnam from 1965 to 1967. He was a proud veteran.
He married Joyce Saam on Feb. 24, 1968 in Byron.
Larry was a hard worker and was a lineman for NG Gilbert, and drove truck for Briggs Transportation, Lyle Hayes Trucking, and the last 25 years for Maplehurst Farms.
Larry was a member of the Elim Reformed Church where he served as a past deacon. He was also a former member of the Byron American Legion prior to their closure.
He was an avid Case Tractor restorer and collector. He was a member of the J. I. Collectors Club and often would write for the Case Old Abe’s News. He loved to go to auctions. He was an avid Cubs, Bears and country music fan, card player, and loved to bowl.
Larry made the White Rock Taxy Wagon that was often seen in local parades. He donated it to the Oregon VFW Post 8739.
He was predeceased by his parents; an infant son, Ricky Bennett; two brothers, John and Steven Bennett; and his parents-in-law, Delbert and Lola Saam.
He is survived by his loving wife, Joyce, of Chana; his three daughters whom he cherished, Susan “Sue” (James) Calveard of Venus, Texas, Patricia “Patty” (Dr. Jason) Crane of Palatine, and Sandra “Sandy” (Ryan) Wild of Westfield, Indiana; four grandchildren, Olivia and Anton Crane and Grace and Bailey Wild; brother, Lyle (Corinne) Bennett of Caledonia; two sisters, Jean (Henry) Johnson of Mascoutah, and Cindy Bennett of Elmwood Park; and sister-in-law, Sara Bennett of Rockford.  
Due to COVID-19 restrictions a private graveside service will be held at the Byron Cemetery with the Rev. Cary Winn pastor of the Elim Reformed Church at Kings officiating.  
A memorial may be made to the organization of the donor’s choice in memory of Larry P. Bennett.