Chris E. Bennett, 62, of Gillett, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Sunday, November 23, 2025.

Born on February 11, 1963, in Troy, he was the son of Jean (Ayers) Bennett and the late Floyd Bennett. On September 25, 1982, Chris married his beloved wife, the former Patti Simcoe, in Canton. Together they shared 43 wonderful years of marriage and raised four children, building a life centered on love and family.

Chris worked as a foreman for Fuel Energy in Horseheads for 13 years, retiring in September of 2025.

Known as a true outdoorsman, he found joy in hunting, fishing, and spending time in nature. A hardworking man and a jack of all trades, Chris could tackle just about anything he set his mind to. Above all, his greatest pride and joy was his family, especially his grandchildren, who meant the world to him.

In addition to his mother, Chris leaves behind his wife; Patti Bennett at home, children; Kelly (Bryan) Watkins, Chad (Lana) Bennett, Ryan Bennett and Blair (Karissa) Bennett, grandchildren; Cooper, Avery and Brianna Watkins, Brynleigh, Keagan, Emerson, Jaydan, Brycen and Ella Bennett, siblings; Tim (Vicky) Bennett, Tammy (Bruce) Andrus, Ronald (Elizabeth) Bennett and Karen (Jason) Akers, father -in-law; Max Simcoe, special cousin; David Muszynski as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, dear friends and neighbors.

Besides his father, Chris was predeceased by his mother-in-law; Norma Simcoe, aunt; Cleone Vanderpool and a brother-in-law; Matt Smith.

A time of visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, November 28, 2025, at Pepper Funeral Home and Cremation Facility, 578 Springbrook Drive in Canton. A funeral service will follow at 2 p.m. Burial will be private and held in the Baptist Hill Road Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests you plant a tree in Chris's memory. Memories of Chris and condolences to his family may be shared by visiting www.pepperfuneralhomes.com.