Bruce William Bennett

Bruce William Bennett

Obituary

Born November 26, 1947 and passed into eternal peace on August 20, 2024

After a mighty and brave fight against cancer, Bruce William Bennett entered his final rest on August 20, 2024.  Surrounded by family and loved ones, he was courageous to the end. 

Bruce was born on November 26, 1947 and lovingly raised by William and Dorothy Bennett   Mr. Bennet grew up in Hemet, California.

Courage defined Bruce’s life.  On the outside he was a kind soul but there was a fierce Marine with a strong protective streak.  Mr. Bennett proudly served as a United States Marine from 1966 until 1968 when he was wounded, in service to his country. He was awarded the Purple Heart. After the military, Bruce settled in Santa Barbara, where he became a compassionate and caring funeral director.  His experience in Vietnam gave him a tender heart to loss, trauma and grief.  His military experience created a lifelong commitment to helping fellow veterans, most notably with Santa Barbara Hearts center.

Bruce is predeceased by his love and soulmate, Jamie Raney.   Their unique and enduring love story brought inspiration to anyone that knew them.   We imagine Jamie, along with Bruce’s parents are welcoming him to an afterlife party that will include lots of laughter and love.

Bruce is survived by Sister Laurie Bennett, nephew Keegan and wife Michelle Tangeman. and their children Easton and Rylan.  Niece Lindsay Tangeman and her son, Ashton. 

Also survived by daughters, Kelly Bennett, Shelly Brooks and Robin Anglin.   Bruce was proud of his grandchildren, Devyn, Bree and Jessica and Sydney. 

Bruce was devoted to his stepson Erik and his wife Natalie Raney, along with their children Jackson, Alek and Eloise.

Bruce made the world a more interesting place.  His friends all agreed that Bruce was a “world class banterer.”   Mr. Bennett was known to be a loyal friend and confidant. 

In lieu of flowers, please support Wounded Warriors, a charity close to Bruce’s heart

We are having a celebration of life on Sunday October 13, 2024 at 11:00 AM at HEARTS Therapeutic Equestrian Center,  4420 Calle Real, Santa Barbara 93110 following will be a catered luncheon at Veterans Memorial Building @ 112 W. Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara 93101. 

Please RSVP to bbennettrsvp@ gmail.com with # of guests.

Hope to see you all there!