Dorris Kay Bennett 1939-2022

Wheaton, IL – Beloved sister, aunt, great-aunt, and friend, Dorris "Dory" Bennett, 82, of Wheaton, IL passed away peacefully at AccentCare Inpatient Hospice, Naperville, IL on February 19, 2022.

Dory was born in Chicago, IL on November 20, 1939 the daughter of Lawrence and Lucille (Mann) Bennett.  She was preceded in death by her parents, sister-in-law Stasia (Oertley) Bennett, and great-nephew Eliot Bennett.  She is survived by her siblings Betty Bennett, and Dr. John (Connie) Bennett; nieces Viv Bennett (Dean Held), and Dr. Christina Bennett; nephews Loren Bennett, and Eric (Elizabeth) Bennett PhD; great nieces and nephews Kate Held, Matthew Held, AJ Held, among others.

Dory graduated from Blue Island High School in 1957.  She earned her Bachelors and Masters of Education Degrees at Northern IL University in 1961 and 1967, respectively.  She taught at Villa Park, IL's Jefferson Jr High as a Physical Education teacher and was a champion of Title IX.  Dory delighted in being with family and friends, whether at the lake, Cozy Cottage, special event lunches and dinners, or just hanging out.  She was artistic, athletic, kind, strong, loving, resilient, and thoughtful.  Her independent can-do attitude and zest for life inspired us all, as did her love of the outdoors and boating.  Many wonderful family memories were made at the lake.

She was a friend to the little ones – her many dear miniature schnauzers (Timmy, Tommy, Sonny Boy, Chrissy, Sissy, and Missy).  She will be dearly missed but her legacy will live on.  Private services will be held followed by burial at Oak Hill Cemetery, Chicago, IL.  Memorial donations may be made to:

Northern IL Foodbank (or your local foodbank): Donate Funds - Individuals & Families | Northern Illinois Food Bank (solvehungertoday.org)

Multiple Sclerosis Association of America: The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA) (mymsaa.org)

WTTW PBS station: Support WTTW | WTTW Chicago