Bennett County Funeral Service

Funeral services were held Thursday morning.The flags flew at half-staff in Jasper, and under this large American flag at the Veterans Memorial Bridge, Chief Michael Bennett had everyone's full respect."I think he put community first and was very proud of the community and serving the people here in Jasper," says Whitney Vonderheide of Jasper."He did a real good job, and respected Jasper, and he did what he was supposed to do and when you needed him, he was right there," adds Lisa James of Jasper.Police officers and state troopers from across the county, and beyond, proceeded from Redemption Christian Church, down Newton Street as residents silently stood, saluted, and remembered his tenure as chief, his 33 years with Indiana State Police, and what he meant to them."Talked to one of them last night, and he was at the funeral home all day yesterday he said. He said we're really going to miss him," says Gene Mehringer of Ireland, Indiana"I think just being a small community, everyone tries to pull together in a situation like this and show support and come together," adds Vonderheide.He's remembered as a leader, a mentor, an avid sports fan. Someone who wanted the best for the city he served. As the procession made its way to his resting place, they remember his service and how he meant so much to those he served with and served for."They loved him. They say he was doing a great job. They're going to miss him," says Mehringer.Chief Bennett was 70 years old.(This story was originally published on August 31, 2017)... (Tristatehomepage.com)