Jeffrey E. Bennett

Jeffrey E. Bennett, 61, died unexpectedly and peacefully at home on August 21, 2020 with his dog Bristol by his side. He was born August 3, 1959 in Burlington, VT to Alice (Perkins) Bennett of Shelburne, VT and the late Edwin Bennett.
Jeff is survived by his loving wife, who he met 28 years ago on the Appalachian Trail, Judy (Sperr) Bennett; his children Maeghan (Earl) Booska and Taylor Bennett (Jenna Garrison) and their sister Tori Cousino; grandchildren Kellen, Aisling and Paeton; and two siblings Stuart Bennett (Linda Mayer) and Jill Bennett.
Jeff will be remembered for many things, but above all his love of family and friends and his boundless sense of humor.
Jeff was a loving caring son, husband, father, grandfather and family man. He was always happiest when giving selflessly of his time and resources to those he loved; building Lego constructions, prowling the woods and camping with his children and later his grandchildren. He hosted many annual parties on Lake Champlain and described himself as a “carnie” when setting up the party tent for large gatherings of family and friends.
As a young boy, Jeff raised cain with his friends in Shelburne, testing boundaries and pushing limits. Fond memories include sledding behind the Shelburne IGA and snowmobiling on all the trails in Vermont. Other potentially illegal escapades will not be included here.
Jeff’s contagious laughter could bring tears of joy, not just to his own eyes but also to those around him…and maybe even elicited a snort or two from time to time. His humor included many things such as Monty Python’s the Knights of Nii and the Killer Rabbit of Caerbannog, zany commercials and funny fart jokes. Through all the jokes and banter, Jeff could always be counted on to be there through thick and thin.
Jeff treasured his time working with his dad Ed and brother Stu at Nordic Ford. From this experience, he got his obsession of Fords, love of working on cars and spending long weekends camped by the racetrack with “the boys”. Additionally, he was a Coca-Cola fan. Since becoming sober over 30 years ago, he developed a somewhat-healthier addiction to Coke and now has a collection of memorabilia from around the world.
Jeff was forever loyal, loving, dedicated and passionate. Those of us who knew and loved Jeff will dearly miss the generous host, joker and prankster who was never happier than spending time and sharing laughs with his many family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy or any non-profit organization of your choice.
A celebration of Jeff’s life will be scheduled at a later date.