John ‘Rocky’ R. Bennett

John “Rocky” R. Bennett was born April 14, 1953, in Peoria, Illinois, and passed away on Feb. 26, 2021, in Kalispell.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Otis and Katherine Bennett, and his sister, Karen Woodcock.

He worked with Flathead Lake Lodge for 35 years, using all his talents to maintain and upgrade the beautiful lodge. Over the years he made many friends with not only his coworkers, which included the seasonal ranch hands from all over the country, but lodge guests as well. Rocky also helped manage a Buffalo Ranch in Browning for several years, living on the ranch and maintaining the herd, mending ever-breaking fences on the vast acreage, and keeping the ranch house and barn in tip-top condition. He spent months at a time on this bison ranch in total isolation and it was then that the non-techie Rocky soon became computer literate, using email for the first time. It was also during that period, when he came to Bigfork for supplies, a friend introduced him to what became the love of his life, Jennifer Ehlers. Jennifer would visit him on the remote Browning ranch, and he won her heart by including her on repairing fence-lines, hauling hay for the buffalo, burying unlucky calves killed by wolves, making endless equipment repairs, and after a long, hard day, enjoying the beauty and solitude of the mountains. They were blessed with 21 years together before his passing.

He was known for his kind and gentle spirit and was cherished by all those whose lives he touched. Rocky was always willing to share his abundance of knowledge and was a guide to those he knew needed an extra hand. He was gifted with many amazing qualities, one of which was his extremely talented woodworking abilities. He enjoyed his annual prairie dog hunting trips as well as reuniting with old friends at fishing camp. Rocky and Jennifer took many adventurous trips around Montana; he would drive, Jennifer would photograph the animals and birds, and they would share their discoveries with friends.

Rocky was taken far too soon by a rare and quickly developing autoimmune disease, and all those who crossed paths with him will truly miss his cheerful, encouraging presence.

Friends are encouraged to visit the website www.buffalohillfh.com to leave notes of condolence for the family. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the family.