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William W. Bennett, Cape band leader

September 12, 2019

William W. Bennett, 60, of Milton passed away peacefully at home Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2019.

Bill was born in Lewes, son of the late Howard and Hilda (Mitchell) Bennett. Bill was a graduate of Cape Henlopen High School class of 1976. He furthered his education at Salisbury State University, receiving a bachelor’s degree in music education and later his master’s of education.  He had a career in music education as a band director for Cape Henlopen School District, teaching middle school band for 29 years, retiring in 2012. 

Bill had varied interests, including sports, that is, watching sports, especially NHL, being a serious fan of the Philadelphia Flyers; soccer, acting as soccer coach with Cape school district during his tenure as band and music teacher and, for several years after retirement, horse racing, owning a harness racing horse with friends for a time that actually won one race; and Formula One auto racing, traveling to Montreal several times to attend the race at that venue.  

Bill loved flying and had a desire to fly since he was 16 years old (Mom told him no!). He fulfilled that desire when he obtained his pilot’s license in 2005 and became a member of the A.O.P.A. in Georgetown. His love of flying was so great, he and three friends bought and shared a small plane flying out of Eagle Crest. 

Bill was an avid reader and political blogger. He never let go a chance to share his political views. He also met friends most Tuesday nights for a competitive round of trivia at the Grand Slam as part of the infamous “We Tape Survivor” team. During his down time he enjoyed an eclectic array of music and photography, especially taking pictures of his grandchildren whom he loved and adored. 

Bill is survived by his wife of 39 years, Caren (Reynolds) Bennett; one daughter, Cari Bennett and her husband Nicholas Bekeshka of Rehoboth; and three grandchildren, Adeline, Bennett and Eleanor Bekeshka.

A Celebration of Bill’s life will take place at 7 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 19, in the chapel of Short Funeral Services, 416 Federal St., Milton where a time of visitation for family and friends will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Burial will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are welcome to be made to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriot Way, Milford, DE 19963, or Tunnell Cancer Center, c/o Beebe Medical Foundation, 902 Savannah Road, Lewes, DE 19958.

 

 

 

 

 

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