Robert L Bennett, Sr.

Robert Landis Bennett Sr., 86, of Biglerville, died Friday, January 26, 2018 at his home. He was born March 28, 1931, in Ligonier, the son of Allan and Elizabeth Bennett. He grew up in the Ligonier Valley and worked on various farms and the Valley Dairy during his youth. He graduated from Ligonier High School in 1949, and worked at the A&P grocery store in Ligonier while supporting his family. Bob married Margery A. McKelvey on June 19, 1953 in Ligonier. She died February 6, 2017, after 63 years of marriage. He attended forestry school at Penn State Mont Alto and later graduated from Penn State University at University Park in 1956 with a degree in forestry. After working for the state parks department at Pine Grove Furnace State Park, he founded Penn Forestry Company, a consulting forestry business, in Biglerville in 1960; the company continues at the original location on Fourth Street with his son Ron as president. Bob belonged to the Biglerville Business Club in the early years, and also served several terms on Biglerville Borough Council. He was a member for many years of Centenary United Methodist Church in Biglerville, and later Bethel Mennonite Church. In both churches he was an active member and a longtime youth leader. He was a fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pirates, but first and foremost a devoted follower of the Penn State Nittany Lions. He enjoyed the outdoors, including hunting, fishing, birds, wildlife and family activities at the cabin on his woodland acreage near Orrtanna. He loved reading, logic and math puzzles, and practical jokes and puns. After his retirement, he and his wife Margie enjoyed taking trips to Florida and Maine in their travel trailer. In later years, Bob was especially thankful to his dedicated caregivers: Judy, Twila, Wendy, Cailee and Chris, who cared for him at his home. He is survived by three children: Rob and wife Jodi, Arendtsville; Ron and wife Deb, Orrtanna, and Becky, Mont Alto. Also surviving are three grandchildren, Russell, Nathan, and Rachelle; a brother Harry and wife Joan of Parachute, CO, a sister Betty Eichler of Cranberry, numerous nieces and nephews; and a sister-in-law Vie Fliess of Saint Clairsville, OH. A brother, Al, died previously. Visitation will be Thursday, February 1st, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Dugan Funeral Home, 111 S. Main Street, Bendersville, followed by a private service, with Reverend Ken Williamson officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Land Conservancy of Adams County, 670 Old Harrisburg Road, Suite 201, Gettysburg, PA 17325.