Slinger, WI – George James Bennett, 78, of Slinger, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2025. George was a cherished husband, father, brother, mentor, and friend. He was known for his vibrant zest for life, infectious humor, and unwavering spirit that inspired everyone around him. He genuinely cared and took loving and sincere interest in each of his friends and their families.
Born on September 4, 1946, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, George was raised along with his siblings Fred, James, Irene, and Joseph Bennett. After attending St. John’s Military Academy and then graduating from Slinger High School in 1964, he proudly served his country by completing two tours of duty during the Vietnam war as a Navy Seabee from 1966-1971.
Following his return from service, George dedicated himself to the family business, Milwaukee Pump & Tank Works, Inc. carrying on its legacy and successfully owning and operating it as well as Armor Shield of Wisconsin until his retirement in 2018. In 1995, a severe workplace accident yielded life-threatening burns.
Undeterred, George courageously faced his long recovery, transforming adversity into strength and numerous opportunities to motivate, educate, and inspire others. He became a valued guest speaker at nursing schools including physical and occupational therapists who were crucial to his recovery, firefighter associations, and nursing graduations, always quick to share the lessons of resilience he learned firsthand.
George was a passionate car enthusiast and spent countless years building and restoring vintage cars and hot rods, too many to list.
He took immense pride and joy in completing his most treasured project, a 1937 Packard Formal Sedan in 2022, of which there were only 10 on the road in the nation. He won Best in Show at an invitation-only car show on its maiden voyage.
An avid fan of motor racing, his enthusiasm for cars, motorcycles, and racing history was profound. Outside of his garage, George enjoyed travel adventures both across the United States, especially Maui and Kauai, and throughout Europe, relishing in new experiences and savoring different cultures and cuisines. He loved spending lots of time at their cabin up north, on his tractor clearing trails, feeding the animals with his little dog Bodie, and enjoying the beauty of the property, although he always said “this isn’t a vacation home…it’s just constant work!” His talents also extended to being an excellent chef who delighted in cooking for friends and family.
George is lovingly survived by his beloved wife and best friend, Vivian Bennett, son Clayton Bennett (Paula), daughter Natalie Clouse, brother James Bennett (Arlene) and sister Irene Picchione. He was preceded in death by his parents Elmer and Magdalen Bennett and his brothers Fred and Joseph Bennett. He is also survived by five grandchildren, three great grandchildren, and many cousins, nieces and nephews and his little dog, Bodie, who will miss him greatly.
He leaves behind countless cherished memories and a lasting legacy of kindness, laughter, and inspiration. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Memorial Services for George will be held on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church (200 E Washington St., Slinger, WI 53027). The family will greet relatives and friends from 10:30 a.m. until the start of Mass at 12:00 p.m.
