It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Donald "Butch" Ellsworth Bennett, Jr., who passed away quietly in his home in the early morning of May 10, 2024, in the presence of Diane (Albright) Bennett.

Don was born on November 3, 1946, in Webb City, Missouri, to Fern (Koestel) and Donald Bennett, Sr. In 1964, he graduated from Trego Community High School in WaKeeney, Kansas, and moved to Wichita to pursue his dream of barbering. He completed his training and certification from Wichita Barber College in 1965.

Don didn't have customers -- he had friends. His warm personality and natural knack for putting anyone in his chair at ease made him a trusted confidant to many. Don was a skilled professional who took as much pride in his craft as he did in getting to know the community he lived, loved, and served for decades.

Cutting hair was Don's first passion, but as a barber, he found his foremost love — Diane Maxine Albright. Their marriage on August 17, 1968, began a love story spanning 56 years and nine months. Together, they welcomed their first daughter, Devria (Long), on May 5, 1970, followed by Dawnele (Taylor) on December 21, 1973.

Don's ever-present desire to support his growing family to the best of his abilities motivated him to a career in law enforcement. While working as a barber, he completed law enforcement training. As a rookie police officer, he sought an associate's degree in Administrative Justice at Wichita State University, graduating as a full-time Commissioned Police Officer in 1972. Throughout his 20-year career, others grew to know Don for his bravery, willingness to help others, and unwavering commitment to justice until his retirement in 1992.

Don became a prolific officer in the WPD Traffic Section as a Traffic Officer, Radar Officer, Alcohol Safety Action Program Officer, Traffic Investigator, and Fatal Follow-up Detective. Notably, he was Kansas's first law enforcement professional to become a certified Radar Officer. He trained and certified officers and police departments on radar use, earning him the nickname "Mr. Radar" from officers statewide.

Don was a man of great integrity who devoted his life to serving his family and community, living by the motto, "You always have time for what you put first." Despite the demands of his profession, Don always made time for his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who cherished his loved ones more than anything and loved living life by their sides. He was a source of strength and guidance to his family, who will deeply miss his unwavering love and support.

Don collected cars, shaving mugs, puzzle games, jokes, smiles, and advice—all of which he was willing to share with anyone who needed them. He was known for his generosity, humor, and patience. Above all else, Don was a gentle, humble, and kind soul who touched the lives of so many people.

Although we are heartbroken at his passing, we take comfort in knowing that he is now at peace and reunited with his loved ones who have gone before him, including his parents. Don is survived by his wife, Diane; daughters Devria (Jack) Long and Dawnele (Chris) Taylor; siblings, David (Josephine) Bennett and Linda (Virgil) Jones; nine grandchildren, Sarah (Scott) Penneman, Madison Powers, Nicholas (Megan) Powers, Bennett (Jaycee) Powers, Jack Powers, and Payton Powers; Emma Taylor, Elaina Taylor, and Evie Taylor; and two great-grandchildren, Olivia and Wesley.

His memory will live on in our hearts forever, and we will always cherish our time with him. Although we are heartbroken at his passing, we take comfort in knowing he lived a purposeful, meaningful life — a true gift he shared with everyone he loved. He made a difference in the lives of so many people, and his legacy will live on through his family, friends, and the community he served.

The family welcomes loved ones, friends, and customers to celebrate Don's life and legacy during his service on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at 10 a.m., at First United Methodist Church, 560 N Park Ave., Valley Center, 67147. The family also invites the community to celebrate Don's legacy together at Lion's Park from 6--8 p.m. that evening. Anyone who comes is encouraged to bring their families, dogs, and classic cars (three things he loved). Bring your best stories and dad jokes, and enjoy music, hot dogs, and ice cream.

In line with Don's love for animals and helping others, the family has established a memorial with the Valley Center Animal League. Donations can be made in his memory at Paw Prints Pet Supply, 126 W Main St., Valley Center, 67147.

The family extends its deepest appreciation to Home Health and Hospice of Kansas's dedicated care and support.

Baker Funeral Home Valley Center has charge. Condolences may be left for the family at www.bakerfhvc.com