ANTWERP, OH:
Thomas “Tom” Bennett, 83, of Antwerp, passed away peacefully at home on April 4, 2024.
Tom was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana May 20, 1940, twin brother to Tim Bennett, and son of the late Thomas K. Bennett and Elizabeth R. Bennett. Tom was always sure to share with folks that he was born ten minutes earlier than his twin, Tim!
In 1940, the Bennett family moved from their home in Fort Wayne to the home place on Antwerp Road and State Line. It was here that a lifelong passion for farming and mechanics was instilled. Tom attended grades one through four at the Center Scipio School, and grades four through eight at the South Scipio School. Both being some of the last remaining one room schoolhouses in the area. Tom would often share fond memories of either taking the bus, one mile or so, down the road to the school, or by foot, having to cross the Hamm Interceptor ditch by plank board while the bridge was under construction.
From the South Scipio School, Tom spent one year at the Harlan High School, before transferring to New Haven High School. While at New Haven, Tom and Tim earned the nickname “Bennett Boys/Brothers.” Tom always prided himself on his ability to drive, legally, although appearing much younger in age. Graduating in 1958, Tom spent one year at Indiana University/Purdue University, Fort Wayne, before diving into a lifelong career of farming.
Along with his father and twin brother, Bennett Ford Tractor Sales was opened the following year, 1959, Auburn, Indiana. This only reinforced his ongoing love of all things Ford! Mastering Mechanical Skills, Tom was known to be one of the premiere Ford Tractor Mechanics in area, even after the closure of the dealership in the mid 1960’s. While working at the dealership, he met Nancy Brown, whom he would marry on November 13, 1965. Nancy worked at the pizza parlor next door and would deliver to the Bennett Brothers. In the meantime, Tom was called to serve his country, drafted to the United States Army from 1963-1967. Stationed at Fort Carson, Colorado, Tom was part of the 557th Transport Company, driving 10 Ton trucks, hauling tanks all over the Western United States and Midwest during Reserve Duty.
Tom was a lifelong member of the Bethel United Methodist Church, as well as Golden Sheaf Member (50 years or more) of the Fairview Grange. Tom continued his career in farming and tractor mechanics throughout his lifetime. He would often receive phone calls and was able to diagnose various mechanical problems for those in need of assistance.
Tom will be sadly missed by his wife of 59 years, Nancy L. Bennett (Antwerp), and children; Tara (Jerry) Timbrook (Hicksville), Jama (Dave) Cline (Cecil), Tomi (Mike) Meyer (Cecil), and Thomas “TJ” (Lennie) of Northbrook, Illinois. Tom is also survived by his twin brother Tim (Ruth) Bennett (Antwerp), Elizabeth Flores, Garden Grove, California; Marian Schlagbaum, Monte Vista, Colorado, and Mark (Karen) Bennett (Payne); & 7 grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents and grandson, Lucas Meyer.
Viewing is Tuesday, April 9th, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Dooley Funeral Home, Antwerp.
Tom’s funeral service is Wednesday, April 10th, at 11:00 a.m. with viewing one hour prior at the funeral home.
He will be laid to rest in Bethel Cemetery with military honors.
In keeping with Tom’s charitable spirit, memorials are to the Bethel United Methodist Church.
Fond memories may be shared at dooleyfuneralhome.com
