Elsie Bennett

On December 30, 2017, Elsie Bennett passed away after a long struggle with diabetes and Alzheimer's disease at the Cayuga Medical Center. She was born November 17, 1932, the daughter of Raymond and Theresa Ryerson of Ithaca. She was predeceased by her mother and father; her sister, Mary Ryerson Sanford and a grandson, Justin.

Elsie is survived by her husband, Richard Bennett; her two daughters, Carolyn Corgel (Bill) and Karen Palermo (Mark), as well as her four sons, John Bennett (Peggy), Michael Bennett (Nadine), James Bennett and David Bennett. She is also survived by her nine grandchildren, John, Jr., Sue, Colleen, Brianna, Alana, Nick, Sarah, Zach and Zoe and her great grandson, Donald.

Elsie led a very active life. After raising her children, she sought employment, eventually becoming the office manager of Ithaca Anesthesiologists Group for several years. She and Richard traveled throughout the United States, often camping, and wintering in Florida for two or three months for several years. Elsie authored two books, sang in the Senior Choir and operated, with her daughters, a sutler for Civil War reenactors, selling period clothes and other merchandise to such groups.

A private graveside service will be held in the spring at the Calvary Cemetery. The Bennett Family wishes to extend its thanks to the operators and staff of Cayuga Ridge for their excellent care and kindness for the past three months. In lieu of flowers, donations in Elsie's memory may be made to the Alzheimer's Association. Bangs Funeral Home is assisting the family.