Bennett N. Underhill Jr.

Bennett N. Underhill, loving husband, father, grandfather and uncle passed away on August 14, 2012, at Parkview Home. Bennett was born on September 23, 1931, in Chicago to Bennett and Helen(Koho)Underhill. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Math and Mechanics from the University of Wisconsin in Madison. It was there that his love of square dancing led to the love of his life. He and Nancy Cave were married on July 19, 1954, in Brookings, SD. They made their first home in the Chicago area where Bennett worked as an engineer for Sunbeam and served in the Navy Reserves. Four years later Bennett and Nancy moved to Freeport as he accepted a position with Micro Switch. After 20 years with Micro, Bennett continued his engineering profession with the Newell Company. His last position was as a Management Consultant for a nationally known consulting firm. Throughout his 54 years in Freeport, Bennett was committed to the preservation and continuation of Winnesheik Theatre. He served on its Board of Directors, directed numerous plays, and worked behind the scenes up in the lighting booth. The theatre was one of his passions. Another deep passion was his love for vintage cars. There was always at least 2-3 cars in the driveway in various stages of restoration. Bennett also enjoyed his membership in Quadrille, Golden K Kiwanis, and United Presbyterian Church. Bennett is survived by his wife of 58 years, Nancy; four children: Libby Underhill of Bemidji, MN, Roy Underhill of Milwaukee, WI, Katie Middaugh (Terry)of Shawnee, KS and David Underhill of Freeport; eight grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents and sister, Gail. A memorial service will held on Saturday, August 18th at 3pm at United Presbyterian Church, 302 W. Stephenson Street in Freeport. A Celebration of Life will follow at the Winneshiek Theatre, 228 W. Clarke Street, Freeport, from 4-6pm. A private burial will be at Grand View Cemetery. A wonderful way to pay tribute to Bennett would be to arrive at the service and/or Celebration of Life in your vintage automobile! In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established for the Winneshiek Theatre.