Monica Bennett

With a style all her own, Monica Bennett lived a life filled with family, friends and children. She was a confident, independent and stylish woman who always spoke her mind. Ever the classy dresser and with wit and wisdom to share, Monica made quite an impression on all those fortunate enough to know her.

In 1922 Peter and Stella (Przygodski) Przybylski of Detroit, Michigan, welcomed the birth of their little girl, Monica born on June 17, 1922. The eldest, Monica was later joined by her younger siblings, Lucille, Irene, and Peter. Her father worked as a die setter while her mother remained at home on the east side of Detroit as a homemaker. Even with the onset of the Depression, Monica enjoyed a full childhood, playing basketball, camping and fishing on nearby Lake St. Clair.

Monica graduated from St. Philip Neri High School in 1941. Young and in love, on January 20, 1945, Monica married her high school sweetheart, Joseph Osebold during World War II. Joe survived the fighting, but was lost at sea on his flight home. Eight months pregnant with their son, Joseph, Monica became a widow.

While attending Nazareth College in Kalamazoo, Monica had met Terrence Bennett. After Joe’s untimely death the two eventually dated and married. Terry was also a pilot in the war, and ironically flew the same type of plane as Joe Osebold. Monica and Terry were married on September 3, 1949 at St. Philip Neri Church in Detroit. Together they enjoyed a memorable honeymoon in Quebec, Canada before setting out to begin their new life together as husband and wife. Monica's son, Joe Jr. was just shy of five years old when they became a family of three.

The young family settled in Kalamazoo, with Terry beginning his career as an architect and Monica becoming a homemaker. During this time, seven more children filled their lives with the births of Patricia, Kevin, Margaret, Thomas, Elizabeth, Terrence, and Andrew.

The family outgrew their home in Kalamazoo’s Millwood neighborhood and subsequently moved to a house that Terry designed and built in Comstock. As a mother, Monica was involved with the children's schooling and many activities. She kept tabs on the entire household--managing with a mix of tough love and common sense.

She imparted her Catholic faith to her children and the family was active in St. Joseph’s parish in Kalamazoo.

Monica was an excellent cook, with the giant pots in her kitchen a testament to her culinary as well as planning abilities. Spaghetti, and Polish food were staples in her home and there was always just enough beer on hand. Monica was a talented piano player, entertaining friends and neighbors in her home on Gleneagle Drive. Monica also believed in the power of service and was on the Altar Society and Parish Council at St. Joe’s. She also served as a board member for Comstock Public Schools, a board member of the Comstock Library and an alumni officer for Nazareth College.

Monica and Terry enjoyed traveling together and after Terry passed away unexpectedly in 1976, Monica continued her trips with her sister Irene. Monica never remarried, yet she lived each day with unwavering, faithful assurance. Over the years she remained quite close with her sister, Irene. The two frequented Irene’s Canadian cottage where they played cards, enjoyed good Canadian beer, and laughed at life’s silly foibles.

Monica was an avid reader and her mind was sharp to the end of her life. She enjoyed reading current novels, and kept a log of those she read. An avid Jeopardy fan, it was wise not to call Monica when she was watching her favorite game show.

With her wonderful writing ability, Monica was very thoughtful and loved sending cards. She always sent very personal and meaningful notes. Even though she was brutally honest, whether someone wanted to hear it or not-- Monica was always spot on. The years softened her a little, and whenever she did speak her mind, she did so out of love, with wisdom, and from experience.

Monica liked being with her grandchildren and helping when she could. She especially enjoyed hearing about their band concerts, musical performances and academic achievements. Although she had her own, unique ways, family was by far the most important part of Monica's life.

With her unending zest for life and energy, it was a joy to share her company. Always the lady, she added much to the lives of others with her generous nature. She raised her children in a home filled with love, and it is that very love which will be remembered most.

Monica F. Bennett, age 92, of Kalamazoo, died on Monday, December 15, 2014 at Wyndwood Assisted Living in Portage. Monica was preceded in death by her first husband, Joseph Osebold during WWII; her second husband, Terrence Bennett in 1976; and by her three siblings: Lucille, Irene and Peter J. Przybylski.

Surviving are her eight children: Joseph (Barb) Bennett, Patricia (Ric) Pojeta, Kevin Bennett (Paula Hendriksen), Margaret “Peggy” (Paul) Buckman, Thomas (Sharon) Bennett, Elizabeth “Liz” (Andre) Vasher, Terrence Bennett, Jr., and Andrew (Ellen) Bennett; 18 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; two sisters-in-law: Joanne Przybylski and Maureen Brady; and many nieces and nephews. Visit with Monica's family and friends on Thursday from 5-8 PM at the Life Story Funeral Home, Betzler-Kalamazoo, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo 375-2900 where the Rosary will be recited at 7:30 PM. The Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, December 19, 2014, 11:00 AM at St. Joseph Catholic Church followed by a luncheon in the Bennett Building. Cremation will take place with burial at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Please visit Monica’s personal memory page at www.lifestorynet.com where you can share a favorite memory or photo and sign her guestbook before coming to the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church.