Richard (Dick) Lee Bennett of Rochester passed away on December 28, 2025.
Dick was born on January 3, 1934, in Rochester, Minnesota, to Lloyd and Rose Bennett. He graduated from Rochester High School in 1952, attended Rochester Community College and enlisted in the Army. He married Janice Ridenour on December 1, 1963 and were married 61 years before her passing in June 2025.
Dick worked his entire career at IBM, where he built many lasting relationships. He was a member of the Elks Club, Rochester Exchange Club, and the American Legion.
Dick loved spending time with family and friends. He loved golf, spending time at the cabin and in Florida, but most of all attending the many activities of his grandchildren. When the grandkids were younger, he and Jan were known to map out their week to hit as many activities as possible.
He was known for his jokes and friendliness. He never forgot a name or face and knew someone everywhere he went. There were endless stories of growing up on First Street and caddying at the Country Club.
He is survived by his daughters Jodi (David) Hruska and Jennifer (Doug) Zmolek, all of Rochester; his grandchildren, Courtney (Grant) Coleman, Alexa Hruska, Sam Hruska, Riese Zmolek, Will (Kate) Zmolek, Bennett Zmolek, and Ella Zmolek; along with many special nephews and nieces.
Dick was preceded in death by his wife Jan, parents, sister Julie Nelsen, sister-in-law Lou Robb, and brother in-laws Russ Robb and Ron Ridenour.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to the staff at Meadow Lakes for their care and kindness the past few months. They would also like to thank the Palliative Care floor at Mayo Clinic Hospital Methodist Campus for the compassionate care they gave in his final hours.
A Memorial Service will be held in the spring along with burial at Oakwood Cemetery.
