In Loving Memory of Arleigh Bennett

October 4, 1939 to March 2, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Arleigh Bennett announces the passing of their beloved father and grandpa on March 2, 2025, in Edmonton, Alberta, at the age of 85.

A funeral service will be held for Arleigh on March 29th, 2025 at 1 pm at Compass Immanuel Church in Rapid View, Saskatchewan. A livestream option will be available at Compass Immanuel Church – YouTube.

Arleigh was born on October 4, 1939, in Indian Head, Saskatchewan, as Drummond Frederick Ayers to Frederick and Elizabeth Ayers. At the age of one, he was adopted by Reg and Irma Bennett, becoming the oldest of nine children in the Bennett family.

Arleigh’s life was marked by a deep love for the outdoors, especially hunting, and a special bond with his many dogs he had over his lifetime. He was considered by many as a jack of all trades as he had many talents and passions, including a lifelong love for driving. Whether he was behind the wheel of a long-haul truck or operating a tow truck, Arleigh found joy in the open road. He was a carefree jokester, always bringing laughter to those around him.  Arleigh was never afraid of hard work, and as a true Bennett, he thrived on staying busy. He worked tirelessly until his health forced him to retire at the age of 79. It is at that time that he moved to Edmonton to be closer to his children and grandchildren. The time spent with him during these years is something his family will deeply cherish.

As an adult, Arleigh was given the opportunity to reconnect with his biological siblings from the Ayers family; these relationships brought him great joy. Arleigh embraced both families as part of his story, appreciating both his Ayers and Bennett family.

Arleigh will be lovingly remembered by his three children: Tracy (Norma) Bennett of Edmonton, AB, Nicole (Mike) Hartfield of Fort Saskatchewan, AB, and Shannon (Greg) Thornhill of Fort Saskatchewan, AB as well as seven grandchildren; Taylor (Michael) Hartfield, Jesse Bennett, Jodi Bennett, Tannor (Andrea) Thornhill, Bella Hartfield, Ryan Thornhill and Nick Hartfield. He is also survived by his siblings: Albin, Elouise, Kathleen, Austin, Wendell, Gladys, and Graeme; his sister Dorthy from his Ayers family, as well as numerous sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, and nephews.

Arleigh was predeceased by his parents Reg and Irma Bennett; his sister Esther Klassen; and his siblings from his Ayers family: Walter, John, Phyllis, Keith, Clifford (Jay), Shirley, and Orville.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association.

• Date : 2025-03-02
• Location : Edmonton Alberta