Dr. Thomas Bennett, 79, of Paw Paw, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Sunday, Oct. 16, 2022. Thomas, the son of the late Scott and Arlene (Warner) Bennett, was born in Detroit, MI.
He graduated from Walled Lake High School in 1961 and then began his service in the United States Army as a dental technician stationed in the United States and Germany.
After serving in the Army, he enrolled at Central Michigan University, where he met his wife, Sandra, where they married in 1967. After graduating from Central, Thomas attended the University of Michigan Dental School, graduating in 1974. Thomas established his dental practice first in Lawrence, and then moved his office to Paw Paw in 1976, where he practiced until his retirement in 2013. While practicing, Thomas attended the University of Notre Dame earning an MBA in 1986. After his retirement, Thomas was the supervising dentist at Kellogg Community College for the Dental Hygienist program.
Thomas enjoyed his retirement by spending time with family and friends, working in his workshop building furniture from the trees on his land, and as a member of the American Legion.
Thomas was known for his compassion, kindness, and humor. He was an active member of the local running community throughout his life racing in multiple 5k, 10k, and half marathon races. He would say the best part of a race was breakfast afterwards with friends.
In addition to his loving wife of 55 years, Sandra, Thomas is survived by his children Jalayne (Paul), Terri, Laurie (Kevin); grandchildren, Richard, Devin, Caitlyn, Paul, Drew, Collin; great-granddaughter, Madilyn; siblings, Beverly, Greg (Heather), and Linda.
Friends are invited to gather with the family to remember and share their memories of Thomas on Saturday, Oct. 22, from 11 a.m. to noon at Adams Funeral Home, 502 W. Michigan Ave., Paw Paw, where a memorial service will be held at noon, followed by a time of fellowship at the American Legion, Post 68, 115 N. Niles St., Paw Paw.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made to the American Legion, Post 68, Paw Paw, MI.
Share a memory or sign the online tribute wall at: www.adamspawpaw.com