Bennett Bollinger Sr.

MARBLE HILL – Bennett Dean Bollinger Sr., 80, of Marble Hill passed away Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024, at Saint Francis Medical Center in Cape Girardeau.

Ben was born in Marble Hill Feb. 25, 1944, to Oscar and Frieda Allene Lincoln Bollinger. He and Judy Marie Proffitt were married June 6, 1961, in Cahokia, Illinois. Judy and Ben had been married 33 years when she passed away Aug. 20, 2014.

He graduated from Cahokia High School in 1960, married Judy in 1961 and went to work at the General Motors plant as a electrical maintenance repairman. He retired from GM in 1995 after almost 35 years of service.

After retirement, he and Judy moved to Marble Hill, where he enjoyed country living. He loved hunting and fishing, gardening and even became a logger at the age of 60. Over the years, he would always be available to help anyone who may have encountered problems with their car. He was an amazing mechanic.

Ben is survived by his son, Bennett Dean (Laurie) Bollinger Jr. of Scopus; two daughters, Angie Bollinger of Cahokia and Tammy Jolly of Marble Hill; and four sisters, Jeanett Whitner, Yvonne Estes, Joyce Staten and Sue Crader.

He is also survived by eight grandchildren, R.J. Kinne, Jordan Kinne, Danielle Roberts, Dakota Elsie, Justin Bollinger, Tiffany Bollinger, Joshua Jolly and Emma Jolly; and 10 great-grandchildren.

In addition to his wife, Judy, Ben was preceded in death by two brothers, Dennis and Lynn Bollinger.

A graveside service was held Thursday, Jan. 2, at the Cook Cemetery north of Scopus, with the Rev. Gerald Huff officiating.

Ford and Liley Funeral Home in Marble Hill was in charge of arrangements.

Visit fordandlileyfuneralhome.com to leave an online condolence.