CLARKSTON, Wash. — Richard Guy Bennett Sr., 92, a pillar of the Idaho lumber industry, died at his home in Rancho Mirage, California, on June 12, 2026. He was 92. 

Born in Killam, Alberta, Canada, to Guy and Millie (Barclay) Bennett on July 25, 1933, Bennett Sr. spent his early years in Canada before the family relocated to Clarkston, Washington.

His parents started a small business making fruit boxes for local orchards in the basement of the family home. Soon after, his father secured a contract to manufacture ammunition boxes for the World War II effort. It became apparent that a dedicated facility was needed to support the increasing demand, and Bennett Box Factory was born. Over time, the operation expanded and evolved into a full-scale lumber mill. In 1978, Bennett acquired the Shearer Lumber Co., which had a Grangeville sawmill. That operation evolved into Bennett Forest Industries, which merged with Riley Creek Co. in Coeur d'Alene in 2008 and became Idaho Forest Group.

Bennett helped create jobs for generations of families throughout the valley, a contribution that left a lasting impact on the communities he served. At just 19 years old, Bennett earned his pilot's license, not for recreation, but as a practical way to save time and travel efficiently between operations. Flying enabled him to scout timberlands and conduct business more effectively, reflecting the drive and determination that characterized his career.

Bennett remained deeply committed to the well-being of its young people and wanted future generations to have opportunities and resources to succeed. In honor of his late son, Richard Guy Bennett Jr., he funded the construction of a Boys & Girls Club, which was named in Richard's memory. Through this lasting gift, Bennett's commitment to the valley and its youth continues to benefit generations. Bennett remained dedicated to supporting local youth programs and community centers, believing that investing in young people was one of the most meaningful ways to strengthen a community's future. His generosity can still be seen in Clarkston, where an aquatic center he helped fund continues to serve children and families throughout the community.

His family shared in his obituary: "Richard embraced every aspect of life with enthusiasm, including his work, his family shared. His adventurous spirit truly shined on the water, where he enjoyed deep-sea fishing, crabbing, and shrimping in the Pacific Ocean. His summers were spent navigating the rugged waters of the Northwest Passage aboard the Mary Jane, a boat he shared with his father. Later, aboard his yacht, he visited the beautiful waters of Alaska. He would have family and friends flown in to join him on these unforgettable adventures. Dick wanted everyone he loved to experience the beauty and wonder of Alaska, and he made that dream a reality for countless family members and friends. Sharing those experiences brought him tremendous joy and created memories that will be cherished for generations." 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Guy and Millie Bennett; his first wife, Jeanene Powers (Curtis); his second wife, Joann Bennett (Rogers Nichols); his younger brothers, Frank Bennett and Guy Bennett Jr.; his firstborn son, Richard Guy Bennett Jr.; his infant daughter, Kimberly Ann Bennett; his infant son, Michael Jon Bennett; and his grandson, Nathan Bennett.

He is survived by his wife, Aliede; and seven of his children: Debra Bennett; Trisha (Skip Priest); Cinda (Dr. Dave Crow); John Bennett (Stephany); Leann Bennett; Jim Bennett; and Jeanine Bennett. He is also survived by Aliede's daughters, Julie (Jim Osdale) and Amy Talbot.

Additional survivors include 20 grandchildren, 39 great-grandchildren, 8 great-great-grandchildren; Aliede's granddaughters, her grandson, and her great-grandson. 

A funeral service will be held on Friday, June 26, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Merchants Funeral Home, 1000 7th Street, Clarkston, Washington. A reception will immediately follow at the Clarkston Event Center, 841 6th Street, Clarkston, Washington.

Family and friends are warmly invited to join in celebrating Bennett's life, sharing memories, and honoring the legacy of a man whose generosity, vision, and love for others touched countless lives.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.