William M. Bennett Sr., 88, of Lamar, died Thursday, Aug. 21, 1997, at Barton County Memorial Hospital in Lamar.

He was born July 5, 1909, near Jackson, son of James and Nora Romboutz Bennett. He and Louise Propst were married Sept. 14, 1951. She died Feb. 18, 1994.

Bennett worked at International Shoe Co. many years, retiring in 1971. He lived in Benton and Cape Girardeau from 1976-1995. He was a member of St. Mary's Church at Lamar.

Survivors include a daughter, Mary Lou Meinz of Liberal; a son, John A. Bennett of Batesville, Ark.; six grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a son, a brother, and five sisters.

Friends may call at Ford and Sons Sprigg Street Chapel from 4-8 p.m. Sunday.

Funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Monday at the chapel, with the Rev. Randy Tochtrop officiating. Burial will be in Lorimier Cemetery.