Obituary of William J. Bennett

William James Bennett Jr. William J. Bennett Jr. 73, of Rome, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2020, at his home with his loving family by his side. He was born on October 26, 1946 in Rome, N.Y. a son of the late William and Viola Litz Bennett. Bill grew up in Verona, N.Y. and was a graduate of V.V.S. High School, he then proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force. Bill was employed by the N.Y. State Thruway Authority until his retirement. He loved spending time in the outdoors, hunting, boating or detailing one of his cars or trucks. Bill was formerly united in marriage to Diane Collier Fitzsimmons, together they had one daughter, Kimberly Bennett Carambia. On September 9, 1991, Bill was united in marriage to Kathryn Boyson. He is survived by his loving daughter, Kimberly (Victor) Carambia, Rome; three grandchildren, Madelyn (Tyler) Lemieux, Lauren and Mya Carambia; a sister who he shared a special bond with, Terry Bennett; nephews, Kenneth (Barbara) Moore and their daughter Amanda, Jeffrey (Wendy) Moore, who Bill treated as if they were his own sons. Bill truly enjoyed spending time with his family. He is predeceased by his wife, Kathryn Bennett, a sister and brother-in-law, Noreen and Rex Moore. Bill sometimes had a rough tough exterior, but he was a teddy bear that would do anything for anyone, he was loved dearly and will be missed. The family wishes to thank the staff of Luigi’s Pizzeria and Jo-Jo's Market for the great service and kindness they provided to Bill over the past several years. Memorial contributions may be made to Alcoholics Anonymous 276 N. Genesee Street, Utica N.Y. 13502 or the American Heart Association 125 Business Park Drive #106, Utica, N.Y. 13502. Funeral services are private and there are no calling hours. Interment will take place in Rome Cemetery. Arrangements by Strong-Burns & Sprock Funeral Home 7751 Merrick Road, Rome.