Robert I. Bennett
November 18, 1926-August 26, 2012
It is with a sad heart I (Wilhelm) announce that our friend, Robert Bennett, has passed away. Yet I also rejoice in the fact that my friend has conquered life through death – that is how I see it. And Robert almost made it to age 86.
I take some comfort in the fact that on Tuesday an inner voice compelled me to come out from the bush and once more meet him at noon in the Market Restaurant, a last time. Last Saturday we met again as we did every Saturday afternoon to watch some of his favourite videos, shows on WWII or the lighter side of life, the Gilbert and Sullivan light operas.
He had trouble getting up from the chesterfield lately and would move first higher on the arm and then make it and I applauded him. “ Don’t laugh”, he said, “you will be in my position next”.
I wish to thank Dr. Lee and Associates and the hospital staff who have treated him with kindness and enthusiasm and I know he had never lost his good humour.
His business associates and friends Barry and Jeff and the lawyer Paul Grier share in our loss with the many friends and business associates he had. Mining was his world, and we make sure he gets a good Miner’s Farewell.
“The Worldly Hope men set their Hearts upon
Turns Ashes – or it prospers --and anon,
Like Snow upon the Desert’s dusty Face
Lighting a little Hour or two – is gone.”
“..and He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning or crying or pain; the first things have passed away.”
I sat alone at the Market R. table today and miss you more than I had imagined. I had your dog out for a good walk and I know your presence is still very much with us. Wilhelm W.