Stanley Bennett, 82, of Land O’ Lakes, FL, passed away peacefully on February 24th, surrounded by his wife of 62 years and their children. Born in Middle Wallop, England on April 3, 1943, he came to the United States with his mother at the age of three and grew up as an only child in South Paris, Maine. In 1961, Stan joined the U.S. Navy and served for four years, including sea time aboard the USS Albany, where he discovered his talent for computer programming. He married Patricia B. Genaldi in 1964, and together they built a beautiful life, raising four children—Patti, Jimmy (Rhonda), Terri (Scott), and Mike. He was a devoted and deeply proud grandfather to Shaun Lowe, Ryan and Connor Bennett, and Savanna Bennett. He is preceded in death by his loving parents, James Frances (Jim) and Stella Margaret Bennett.

Stan began his post‑Navy career as an IT Manager with GTE, retiring in 1986. He later brought his expertise to General Dynamics and Worldcom before fully retiring in 2006. From that point forward, he faced a long and hard battle with his health over the next 20 years; yet he remained steadfast in one thing—always being there for his family.

He greeted every day with a smile and never once complained. Stan will be remembered for his sharp mind, his remarkable ability to fix or make anything, and above all, his incredible sense of humor. Whether he was joking, “I’m giving you the finger,” while holding up his pinky, letting his grandkids fill his mouth with whipped cream at Christmas, or playing endless card games at the kitchen table, he brought laughter and light to every room he entered.

Special thanks to Mease Manor Hospice House in Dunedin for their compassionate care. In lieu of flowers, please contribute to this wonderful organization.