Norval A. Bennett

Brasher Falls- Our community mourns the passing of Mr. Norval A. Bennett, 93, who peacefully passed away in the comfort of his home on Thursday May 4, 2017 with his son Gary at his side. Arrangements have been entrusted to Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop. Norval was born in Raymondville, on July 24, 1923 to the late Leo F. and Helen M. (Sharlow) Bennett. He attended St. Joseph's Academy, Brasher Falls and later earned his GED. He proudly served his country as a member of the US ARMY in 1943-46; seeing active duty in the Burma China Theater. Norval married Mary Elizabeth "Betty" Kelley on November 15, 1947 at St. Patrick Church with Fr. John Cotter performing the wedding ceremony. They shared a blessed and a one-of-kind union for 35 years. Betty passed away on May 4, 1983; and they reunited on the same day 34 years later. For 38 dedicated years Norval worked at ALCOA in Massena. He served as a Councilman for the Town of Brasher for a total of 24 years, was past president of the Tri-Town Chamber of commerce from 1967-68, was a member of the Brasher Falls Knights of Columbus, and a parishioner of St. Patrick's Church. Truly an icon in our Tri-Town Community, just about everyone knew Norval; a gentleman paired with character who had a wealth of knowledge, hard working hands, a kind heart, and an unforgettable smile. He had a love of life, a love for being outdoors and in earlier years he enjoyed hunting and fishing. More recently Norval spent his time 'landscaping' on the lawnmower or waving to friends as they passed by from his favorite vantage point, also known as his chair in his driveway. He had a true passion for gardening and Norval's vegetable garden was almost as famous as he was. Early mornings, countless hours, and a whole lot of love was planted in that garden every spring for many years. He made hard work look effortless as his garden appeared pristine and he always harvested more than enough produce; "it was enough to feed the town." He enjoyed playing cards and looked forward to the daily Coffee Club gatherings. Norval had a great sense of humor who always took the time to visit with you and share stories. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Gary and Patty Bennett of Potsdam; 5 grandchildren, Jamie Bennett Steinrotter and her husband Willi of Potsdam, Christopher Bennett of Boston, MA, Elizabeth Bennett of Stamford, CT, Mark and Renee (Cornett) Goodnow, of Potsdam, and Sara Goodnow Florczyk and her husband Steve of Orlando, FL; 3 great-granddaughters, Emmie and Ava Steinrotter, and Gwendolyn Goodnow; his older brother Benjamin Bennett, 97 of Indianapolis, IN; and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws. He also leaves behind his canine companion, Heather. Besides his wife, Norval was predeceased by, his son N. Robert "Bobby" Bennett on September 13, 1984; his daughter Susan "Susie" Goodnow on December 1, 1995; and 2 sisters Palmyra Bennett Bodah and Connie Bennett Opal Thompson. Visitation will be held Friday May 12th from 4-8pm. Norval's Funeral Service and Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday May 13th at 10:00am at St. Patrick Church in Brasher Falls with burial to follow in the parish cemetery. Flowers are gratefully declined; memorial contributions may be made in Norval's honor to Hospice & Palliative Care of St. Lawrence Valley, or to St. Patrick or St. Lawrence Church. Norval came from 'The Greatest' generation and his family, his friends, and our communities were lucky to have had him for 93 years. Memories and condolences can be shared with his family at www.hammillfh.com.