Donald W. “Butch” Bennett, 78, of Monmouth, IL, passed away Saturday, October 10, 2026, at his home.
Butch was born October 3, 1948, in Monmouth, IL, the son of Howard and Norma Jean (Needham) Bennett. He was raised and educated in Monmouth, graduating from Monmouth High School in 1966. After graduation, he went on to join the Army achieving the rank of SP-4. Butch was a Radio-Teletype operator and served during the Vietnam War.
He married Mary Beth Winters in Rock Island, IL on November 26, 1971. They later divorced.
After his discharge from the war, Butch went on to work at the Gates Rubber Company as a braider operator for 33 years until his retirement in 2003.
Butch was an avid Harley-Davidson enthusiast who took great pride in owning and riding his motorcycle. His love for the open road and the Harley-Davidson lifestyle was evident in his passion for bikes and his fondness for wearing Harley-Davidson apparel. Butch was a life member of the VFW, having joined in 1997. He enjoyed watching NASCAR races, sipping an ice-cold Miller Lite, and listening to music, especially the blues. He also cherished his retirement, enjoying the freedom to spend his time doing the things he loved.
Survivors include his son, Adam Bennett of Burlington, IA; his daughter, Erika (JJ) Sloan of Galesburg, IL; his grandchildren, Manny Valdez and Mariah Valdez of Galesburg, IL, and Shayla Bennett of Tennessee; and his sister, Sandy Ewing of Monmouth, IL.
He was proceeded in death by his parents; sister, Gloria Edwardson; and brother, Steve Bennett.Cremation rites have been accorded. There are no services planned at this time. Memorials may be given to the Wounded Warriers Project and can be sent to the funeral home. McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth, IL is in charge of the arrangements.
