M. David Bennett

M. David Bennett, 83, of Cambridge, died Tuesday (March 26, 2013) at Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical, Cambridge. He was born June 21, 1929 in Cambridge, son of the late Daniel C. Bennett and Bessie (McWharter) Bennett. Mr. Bennett was a retired union carpenter, having worked at E & R Construction. He was a US Army veteran. Mr. Bennett was a life member of VFW Post 2901, where he served on the House Committee and was also Post Chaplain for several years. He also worked as a cook for the VFW booth at the fair and at the club, with his specialty being corncakes. He was a member of the Guernsey County Veterans Council; a member of the Military Order of Cooties and served as sky pilot for several years; a member of American Legion Post 0888; and a life member of the VFW National Home. In 2007, he was awarded with "Outstanding Veteran of the Year" commendation, which was presented by the Guernsey County Veteran Council. He enjoyed gardening and playing pool. Mr. Bennett attended Grace Baptist Church. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Daniel Bennett and Willard Bennett; and three sisters, Inez Raptis, Gladys Patterson, and Madeline Wilson. He is survived by his wife, Grace V. (Watson) Bennett, whom he married July 12, 1949; a son, Melvin David Bennett Jr. of New Concord; a daughter, Rebecca (& William) Gardner of Norwich; three grandchildren, Allen Bennett of Zanesville, Brian (& Jennifer) Bennett of Phoenix AZ, and Jamie (& Matt) Archer of Hebron KY; and two great-grandchildren, Kaelin and Marlee. Family and friends may call on Thursday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Thorn-Black Funeral Home, Cambridge, where funeral services will be held on Friday (March 29, 2013) at 11 a.m. with Pastor Gary Roth officiating. Burial will be at Zion Cemetery in Westland Township, with military graveside services conducted by the Guernsey County Veterans Council.