Obituary of Harvey Harel Bennett

Harel Bennett was born August 15, 1927 in Charleston, Arkansas to Frank Bennett and Lois (Ferguson) Bennett. Harel passed from this life on Monday, October 5, 2020 at the age of 93. Raised with 2 older brothers, Bay and Arvel, all three fought in World War II, after which he attended College (Central Arkansas State) where he played football with his older brother Bay. There, he met and married Wilma Higgason and finished college. After graduating he spent a number of years as a surveyor in West Texas and New Mexico until they settled in Tulsa to raise two boys, Jim and John. He started and managed several construction equipment businesses, most recently Builders Service Company. Harel and Wilma were married until the day of Wilma’s death on their 65th wedding anniversary. He loved coaching and watching the boys play sports, took them hunting religiously, and spent weeks at the lake boating with his family. During his later years he was a constant presence in the lives and activities of his 7 grandchildren and 16 great grandkids. He was a long-time member of St. Mark’s Methodist Church and was an active member of the International Fellowship of Christian Businessmen. He and Wilma were generous with both their time and resources and supported a wide range of charities and special needs. Harel was most notable for his exceptional positivity about life, even in the midst of sorrow and loss or challenging circumstances. He truly thought each day would be better than the last, and his positive approach to life spilled over to friends, family, and all the people he touched. Near the end, when speaking and hearing were taken from him, his smile would still light up a room and give joy to those around him. We are thankful for his life, his influence, and his witness to four generations of our family. Graveside service 11:00 A.M. Friday, October 9th at Floral Haven Memorial Gardens.