Edward Ellis Bentley

Edward Ellis “Bill” Bentley, 96, of St. Joseph, went to meet his Lord & Savior Jesus Christ, Saturday, June 3, 2017 at Caretel Inns in St. Joseph.  A Private Family Graveside Service will be held at Riverview Cemetery. Friends may visit from 5 – 7 PM on Wednesday, June 7, 2017 at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph, MI. Memorial contributions may be made to Fairplain Presbyterian Church, where he was a member for over 50 years. Those wishing to send condolences or sign the guest book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com Bill was born on January 10, 1921 in Queens, NY. He moved with his family to Cincinnati, OH where he grew up. Bill was a highly decorated WWII Army Veteran. He received several medals of honor including the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. Bill attended Xavier University and received his Master’s Degree from University of Cincinnati. After graduating he worked for many years at the Crosley Company in Cincinnati. On January 25, 1958 he married Frances “Peggy” Smith in Chicago. Bill began working for Whirlpool after moving to Benton Harbor. He was the Manager of Displays and Conventions and retired after 33 years of service. Bill is survived by his children, Jack Bentley of Benton Harbor, Pete (Lora) Bentley of Indianapolis, IN and Jane (Mike) Wing of Plymouth, MI and six grandchildren, Amanda, Shelby, Austin, Megan, Adam and Casey. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Edna; wife of 55 years, Peggy and brothers, Robert and Jack.