Robert Cloud "Bob" Bennett

Springfield News-Leader - May 5, 2009

Robert Cloud "Bob" Bennett, 89, Springfield, passed away Saturday, May 2, 2009 in Cox South Hospital. He was born October 29, 1919 in Springfield, the son of Herschel E. and Gladys G. Cloud Bennett.

He attended Rountree and Jarrett schools and graduated from Springfield Sr. High School in 1937. After being named an All State basketball player his Senior year in high school, he attended Missouri University on a basketball scholarship.

Following his freshman year at MU he signed a professional baseball contract with the St. Louis Browns organization and played one season for the Fayetteville Angels. He then enrolled at Drury College to complete his education.

Bob was a WWII veteran, serving in the South Pacific where he attained the rank of Lieutenant. He worked for Prudential Insurance Company in St. Louis from 1952 to 1965 and returned to Springfield in 1965 as a Vice President at Union National Bank in charge of the Mortgage Loan Department. He retired from the bank in 1986.

Burial will precede the service at 1 PM in Maple Park Cemetery.