Bill Bennett Obituary

Bill Bennett heard that Heaven's F&B and room operations were in disarray, so on Wednesday July 9, 2025 the Big Guy himself called him home to get things back on track-before all Hell broke loose.
Ever the consummate GM, Bill is now at peace doing what he loved the most, leading the team in heaven. He walks around ensuring the butter is tempered, the tables are gum free, and performing his white glove inspections. He is ensuring every Heavenly resident experiences five-star satisfaction.
Bill was met at the pearly gates by his soul mate, Patricia Ann, his mother and father, Robert and Caroline, his brothers, Corky, Duke, Butch, Wayne, Dick, and his dogs that he loved so much, Molly, Rocky and Rambo. He did mention to St. Peter that the gates could use a good polish.
Bill had a deep love for adventure, and after being honorably discharged from the Army, he set off to explore Europe. He skied the majestic Alps and even served as an assistant to the Prince of Austria-an experience that only added to the colorful fabric of his life story.
Eventually, Bill returned to the United States, bringing his adventurous spirit with him. He worked at ski lodges in both Maine and California before making his way to Arizona, where he began working at the Camelback Inn. It was there that fate stepped in-he met his soulmate, Patricia Ann, and the two were married in 1962. Together, they began a journey that would span continents, careers, and a lifetime of love.
Bill's remarkable journey with the Marriott Corporation began with the company's purchase of the iconic Camelback Inn. Never one to back down from a challenge, Bill quickly became known for his ability to turn around struggling hotels and resorts across the globe. His reputation as a dependable problem-solver led him on assignments around the world.
Pat and the children grew accustomed to life on the move. It was never a surprise when Bill would walk through the door and announce, "Start packing!" From Washington, D.C., back to Arizona, and even to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia-his career took the family on an unforgettable journey. The move to Saudi Arabia was perhaps the biggest surprise of all. Marriott had been struggling to retain general managers who could successfully navigate the complexities of the region. Bill accepted the challenge-and thrived. He quickly earned the respect and admiration of both the Saudi officials and his team.
Later, Bill was called to El Paso, Texas, where Marriott was facing delays in the construction of a new hotel. True to form, Bill immersed himself fully. He moved his office into the hotel lobby so he could personally greet every guest who walked through the doors-a perfect reflection of his passion for people and hospitality.
In 1984, Marriott came calling once again-this time with a new challenge in the heart of Missouri. The Tan-Tar-A Resort, nestled in the Lake of the Ozarks, was struggling and needed a strong leader to steer it in the right direction. Bill was given a year to turn things around-and, as always, he exceeded expectations. Within three years, Tan-Tar-A had undergone a much-needed renovation and emerged from the red, restored to its full potential.
Though Bill officially retired in the late 1990s, retirement didn't last long. His passion for people and community led him to a new role as Director of the Lake of the Ozarks Chamber of Commerce. In this position, he continued to shape the region's future, working tirelessly to turn the Lake into a premier destination for families.
Bill Bennett had a profound impact on the growth and development of the Lake of the Ozarks. He believed it could be more than just a seasonal retreat-he envisioned a place where families could create lifelong memories, and return year after year. Thanks to his leadership, vision, and unwavering dedication, that dream became a reality.
Bill had a lifelong love for cars-and speed. Whether it was a camel trekking through the desert, his trusty Gyro scooting around Tan-Tar-A, or his sleek BMW and Porsche, one thing was certain: he was always going full throttle. Whenever Bill mentioned a trip, his daughter Michelle instinctively knew she'd be brushing up on state driving laws-she became well-versed in at least seven, thanks to her dad's adventurous spirit.
Around the Lake of the Ozarks, Bill was more than just a leader-he was a beloved friend, known for his booming laugh, sharp wit, and the countless lives he touched with his kindness, humor, and passion for life.
He leaves behind his two loving children, Robert William and Michelle Ann; Robert's wife, Lindsay Lopez Bennett; his cherished granddaughter, Elizabeth Anne Bennett, and her husband, Benjamin Calarco; as well as his other grandchildren, Kathryn Elisabeth Lopez and Bennett William Lopez.
Bill will never be forgotten.
"May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
The rain fall soft upon your fields,
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the hollow of His hand."
Arrangements are under the direction of Hedges-Scott-Millard Funeral Homes, 1270 S Business Route 5, Camdenton, MO 65020 (573) 346-2090. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.hedgesscottmillard.com.
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