Matthew Allen Bennett

Matthew Bennett, beloved husband, father, papa and friend passed from this life on December 1st, at Ebeid Hospice held in the loving arms of his family. He was 66 years old. It was the culmination of a two-year journey of pain, suffering, miracles (and joy) that those who travelled with us will not soon forget. Born February 11, 1947 to Marie and Martin Bennett, he was pre-deceased by them and his only brother, Martin Jr. He is survived by his best friend (for 56 years) and wife of 46 years, Linda. He also leaves his dearly loved children, daughter Christina (Terry) Ramsey, son Ben and daughter Katy Bennett; his grandchildren Nicholas, Elizabeth and Isabella Ramsey, Benjamin Bennett, Devon Dempsey and his most delightful great grandson, Max. A proud graduate of Central Catholic Class of ’65, he always held a fondness for his alma mater. He also graduated from the University of Toledo and was a lifelong UT Rocket fan. His passion was the Lady Rockets and he held season tickets for years, rarely missing a game. Matt drove semi for Foodtown for 33 years, retiring in 2000, and the friends he made throughout those years are among the best he ever had. His “posse”, the BDTD group (broken down truck drivers) have been with him every step of the way during his long and difficult illness. Two years into retirement Matt decided that he needed to do more with his life and was hired by the Toledo Metropark System as a part time worker. He was assigned to Swan Creek and it was the very best decision he ever made. He formed close friendships with his “mates” at Swan Creek and they too have supported and loved him through his long ordeal. Matt simply loved that park. He was never happier than when there, feeding the birds, mowing the lawns, building park benches. Matt also formed strong bonds with the Close Park Neighborhood where he and Linda lived and raised their family for 37 years. Without the love and support of this wonderful group of friends, the last two challenging years of Matt’s life would have been much more difficult. Matt also had cherished childhood friends; a few dear ones who have been by his side for more than 50 years. Recently a chaplain asked “what did Matt do in life”. I said, he drove a truck to support his family, but his life’s career was learning. He loved to read, had a vast library and was well versed on so many topics, his favorite being philosophy. He loved nothing better than a lively debate regarding ideology…he always won! Matt’s family owe a debt of gratitude to a host of people, too numerous to mention, but we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all you did. Mostly we thank you for loving Matt…he was so very loveable. Friends may visit at the Coyle Funeral Home, 1770 S. Reynolds Rd. on Wednesday, December 11 from 3-8 , with a Memorial Service and “Sharing of Memories” beginning at 7 p.m. Memorial donations in Matt’s memory to the Swancreek Toledo Metropark. Please leave a message and view his video tribute at CoyleFuneralHome.com

Matthew Allen Bennett

February 11, 1947 - December 1, 2013