Donald R. Bennett, Sr.

Donald Robert “Bo” Bennett Sr., 92, died peacefully at home on March 5, 2021 surrounded by the love and care of his family. He is survived by his three children, Robin Edwards (Glen) of Amelia Island, FL; Donald “Bo” Bennett Jr., of Wilmington, DE; Joseph Bennett (Corey) of Jersey City, NJ, and granddaughter Ashley Bennett of Delray, FL. Bo was predeceased by his wife of 44 years, Mary (Amato) Bennett, and will be laid to rest by her side.

Born in Cincinnati, OH, Bo was the son of Pauline and Clarence Bennett Sr. of Wilmington, DE and had five brothers and one sister who preceded him in death. He was the last man standing of his generation.

Bo attended Claymont high school, where he played football and basketball, excelled in track and field, and developed a lifetime love of sports. He proudly served as a Corporal in the U.S. Army 707th AAA Gun Battalion during the Korean War. Bo worked as an Insurance Investigator for the Equifax Corporation for over 43 years, never missing a day. Bo fondly recalled his role as Manager of the North Brandywine Little League where he mentored many young boys who, later in life, expressed their gratitude for his positive influence and guidance. Bo also enjoyed bowling and was President of Claymont Community Bowling League in his younger years.

Most notably, Bo was a thoroughbred horse owner who shared a life-long passion for horse racing with his wife, Mary, brother-in-law Victor (Amato) and extended family and friends. His face and eyes lit up when he shared the memories from his horse racing years. When you “talk horses”, he will surely smile upon you.

Bo will be remembered for his unconditional love and devotion to his family, his selflessness, gentle spirit, quick wit, and almost encyclopedic memory. We, his children, adored him beyond measure and will love and miss him always. Our Dad was one of the “good guys”. He was our hero.

A visitation will be held at Chandler Funeral Home, 2506 Concord Pike, Wilmington, DE on Sunday, March 14 from 12:00 noon to 1:00pm followed by a memorial service. With current Covid-19 guidelines in place, masks are required and social distancing will be observed. The interment will be held on Monday, March 15, 2021 at 11:00am at the Lawn Croft Cemetery, Linwood, PA.

Given Covid-19 restrictions, the family regrets we cannot provide fellowship and refreshment at this time.

In lieu of flowers, should you feel led to do so, please make a contribution to the Claymont Community Center, Claymont DE, (claymontcenter.org) or to your local charity of choice.