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Obituary: Henry Bennett

Published in Orange County Register, June 5, 2018

Henry Bennett was born in San Carlos, CA in November 1951, the son of Helen and Michael Bennett. Henry died on Saturday, June 2, 2018 in Laguna Woods, CA from complications of ALS. He was 66 years old.

Henry attended public schools throughout his youth, up to and including the University of California at Berkeley, where he studied social work. His teenage years were full of activity, much of it based around the temple youth group at Peninsula Temple Beth El in San Mateo, CA and Camp Swig in Saratoga, CA. Henry was an inclusive, caring leader at youth group events involved in social justice actions. He loved musical theatre productions. He was a star with bright blue eyes and a great smile who made everyone feel welcome.

Henry was a human resources professional for most of the last 40 years, and the work could not have suited him better. He cared for the people he worked for, and for those who worked for him. Henry understood intuitively that contented, well-cared-for and respected employees are the key to any successful enterprise. He was able to convince senior management that each employee matters most – whether a driver, stock-clerk, sales person, or executive. Henry’s compassion for others was evident every day of his career. The last 17 years of his career when he worked for DHL were his most enjoyable.

Henry was surrounded by friends who loved him. His attitude was magnetic. He kept friends forever. His camp friends, his Berkeley people, his professional colleagues – they were there for Henry because they knew he would be there for them. Henry’s circle was wide and strong.

At the center of the circle is his family: wife Shoshana, daughter Elana and son Aaron. Shoshana’s dedication and love for Henry during his months of illness are almost indescribable. She was his rock, and he leaned heavily on her.

Henry is survived by his wife and children, as well as sister Jeanne and brothers Bob, Steve and Dave. He lives in our memories with a smile on his face, some funny schtick to go along with the smile, singing some beloved show tunes, and an outlook on life based on love. He will be sorely missed. May his memory be for a blessing.