Martin J. "Bennie" Bennett, age 72 of Stanwood, passed away unexpectedly at his home, Tuesday April 17, 2012. He was born September 25, 1939 in Detroit. Bennie was honorably discharged from the United States Marine Corps. He was retired from I.B.M. Corporation. Bennie was a member of AmVet Post #1941 of Big Rapids, American Legion Post #98 of Big Rapids, Eagles Aerie #4360 of Stanwood and the Moose in Reed City. He is survived by his wife Jean Bennett of Stanwood, a brother, Tom Bennett of Stanwood; sons, Bruce (Leslie) Downs of Colorado Springs, CO, Bart Downs of Lawrence, KS, Daughter, Amanda Jo (Dave) Grosdeck of Kansas City, KS; grandson, Zach Downs of Lawrence, KS; granddaughters, Danielle and Jacqueline Abbee of Kansas City, KS, Sadie, Madeline, Ally Anne and Callie Rose Downs of Colorado Springs, CO and several nieces, nephews, great and great-great nieces and nephews. A memorial service will take place 1:00 p.m. Thursday, April 26th at the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids with visitation one hour prior at noon. Military honors will be under the auspices of the American Legion Post #98 Firing Squad and the United States Marine Corps. Memorial contributions in Bennie's name may be made to Cancer Treatment Centers of America. Please make checks payable to Assistance in Healthcare, P.O. Box 396, Zion, IL 60099.