Indianapolis, IN/Southbridge: Stephen Francis Bennett Sr. 87, passed away on November 13, 2024, in Indianapolis, IN. Born on August 28, 1937 in Worcester Massachusetts, Stephen lived a life marked by devotion to his family.

He is survived by his devoted wife and caregiver, Kathleen M. Bennett of Indianapolis, IN; his beloved children; Stephen F. Bennett Jr. and his wife Donna of Myrtle Beach, SC, Julie C. Carmel and her husband Cliff of Sturbridge, Deborah J. Boiteau and her husband Wayne of Southbridge, his stepchildren, Michelle M. and Carolyn A. Carnes, his sister-in-law Carol A and the late Robert F. Carter of Bethel Park, PA, Brother-in-Law Gary L. and his wife Rhonda A. Hurbanek of Poolesville, MD.  Steve also leaves his grandchildren Kevin, Renee, Ashley, Gabrielle, Luc, Lauren, Jamie, Christen, Nicolas, Benjamin, Aidan and Dylan, and great grandchildren Logan, Noah, Lyle, Rylee, Oscar, Grace, Bennett, Samuel and Lucy.  He also leaves several nieces and nephews.

Steve was predeceased by his parents, Leon and Agnes Bennett, his three sisters; Mary, Muriel and Marilyn, his Irish twin brother Leon Jr., his parents-in-law Louis J. and Florence M. Hurbanek of Pittsburgh PA.

Steve attended Auburn, MA schools where he was an outstanding student athlete.  He was recruited by many Ivy League Universities, and was appointed to West Point.  He decided to attend Boston College with his brother Leon on full football scholarships where he obtained his Bachelor's degree in Accounting. While at Boston College he was a member of the ROTC program, becoming a Second Lieutenant in the US Army. He then received his Master's Degree in Education from Worcester State College and taught and coached football for the town of Auburn.  After working in the family business, B&B Electric, he dedicated over 30 years to American Optical, Cabot/Aearo Safety.  Steve volunteered for many years for Pop Warner Football and created a love for the game in any young man that played for him.  His Red/White/Blue offense is cemented in their memories.

Steve had a love for travel and used a motor home to cross the country; he was one of few that can say they visited all 50 US States. Steve completed the Boston Marathon twice in his 50's and was an avid fan of New England Sports teams, especially the Patriots.  He attended many Indy 500 races and excelled at playing golf.  He was always up for a spirited conversation about sports or politics and his family-famous phrases will never be forgotten.

The family would also like to thank Dr. Caitlyn Baxter and the ICU team at IU Methodist Hospital for the care and support during Steve's final days.

Calling hours for Stephen will be held on Saturday, November 30th , from 10:00am to 1:00pm in the Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge, with a funeral service to follow at 1:00pm in the funeral home. Burial in Pine Grove Cemetery, Boylston, will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306.