Key Points
- Arnett Grant Bening was born on May 12, 1926, in Waterloo, Iowa, and died on September 21, 2023, in San Diego, California, at age 97.
- He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II as an airborne radio operator mechanic with the 516th troop carrier squadron, stationed in England and Germany.
- Bening had a 41-year career in the life insurance industry, retiring as a branch manager in San Diego in 1991 after moving there in 1965.
- He was married to Shirley Katherine Ashley for 73 years, with four children, including actress Annette Bening, and had eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
- He was actively involved in community organizations like the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and was a lifelong member of the Episcopal Church.
Background
Born on May 12, 1926, in Waterloo, Iowa, Arnett Grant Bening was raised in a small Midwestern town that instilled hard work and determination in him. His story of resilience, service, and deep commitment to family and community reflects a generation shaped by the Great Depression and World War II. Erwin William and Margaret Jane Bening, his parents, instilled honesty and perseverance in him, which would shape his life.
Arnett learnt the value of community support and self-reliance growing up in a tough economy. His childhood in the Great Depression shaped his character and prepared him for life’s trials. His early years were defined by a commitment to climb above circumstances, which led him to military and professional service.
Military Service
World War II gave many young Americans a chance to help others. As a senior at Waterloo West High School, Arnett joined the U.S. military in 1944. Army Air Corps. His patriotism and determination to defend freedoms led him to join the military during such a crucial period.
Arnett began airborne radio operator mechanic training as an aviation cadet. He was assigned to the 516th troop carrier squadron, which ensures troop communication. His radio operations in England and Germany were crucial to Allied objectives. His technological skills helped deliver messages and orders quickly, which was crucial to the war effort.
Arnett’s military service taught him discipline, responsibility, and brotherhood. Wartime circumstances taught him the value of teamwork and the need for precision in even the smallest jobs. These lessons will shape his career and personal life after the war.
Career and Community
Arnett spent nearly four decades in the life insurance industry after World War II, a job that fit his passion for helping others protect their futures. Arnett began his insurance career in January 1950 after graduating from the University of Iowa with a business degree. He worked as an agent, general agent, and branch manager.
Arnett moved to San Diego, California, in 1965, starting a new chapter in his life. His distinguished career as Business Men’s Assurance Company branch manager in San Diego ended in 1991. His 41-year career shows his dedication, skill, and dedication to helping people financially.
But Arnett’s contributions went beyond his career. He was active in various civic organizations and cared deeply about his community. His membership in the American Legion and VFW allowed him to stay in touch with other veterans and give back to those who had similar wartime experiences. His lifetime Episcopal Church participation reinforced his faith and fellowship, providing spiritual support and a network of like-minded people.
Arnett demonstrated reliability, service, and compassion throughout his profession and community commitment. He worked hard to give people a solid future in his professional and volunteer activity.
Family Life
Family was crucial to Arnett Grant Bening’s life. Love, dedication, and a 70-year commitment defined his personal life. Arnett met Shirley Katherine Ashley at the University of Iowa while studying business. A chance blind date led to a lifelong romance. A remarkable 73-year marriage began on October 8, 1950, in La Porte City, Iowa.
Arnett and Shirley created a respectful, values-based family. They had Jane Reisman, Bradley Bening, Annette Bening, and Byron Bening. Each child learned about hard labor, service, and community, the values Arnett lived by throughout his life.
Annette Bening is notable among his offspring for her family ties and her career. Annette was born on May 29, 1958, and became famous for her roles in American Beauty and The Kids Are All Right. Her Hollywood success is a source of pride for the Bening family and shows how her parents’ ideals and loving atmosphere can lead to greatness.
Arnett’s eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren continue his legacy. His devotion and loyalty are remembered during family reunions, holidays, and recollections. The success of his family is a monument to his legacy of dedication, tenacity, and a great sense of duty to people he loved.
Later Years and Legacy
Arnett Grant Bening’s final years were defined by service, community involvement, and a gentle dignity that impacted everyone who knew him. The accepting environment of San Diego allowed Arnett to apply his longstanding ideals in new ways after relocating there in 1965. His desire to help society continued after retirement in 1991.
Arnett stayed active in veteran and community groups after retiring. His regular engagement in American Legion and VFW activities kept him linked with others who had similar life experiences. The Episcopal Church gave him inspiration and community support throughout his life. These engagements improved his life and showed him how to live with purpose and compassion.
Arnett enjoyed a lengthy and busy life until his September 21, 2023, death in San Diego at 97. His long life is a testament to sacrifice, hard effort, and unshakable adherence to his generation’s principles. His passing ended an era, but his legacy lives on through the lives he touched, the organizations he funded, and the family he passionately fostered.
Arnett’s life inspires many today. His journey from a little Iowa town to battlefields in Europe to a long, meaningful career in San Diego shows the power of dedication and community service. His story shows that individual contributions—whether worldwide during conflict or little acts of kindness—can change the world.
Arnett Grant Bening’s life celebrates service, leadership, and love. His military and civilian successes taught future generations that success is measured by both personal accomplishments and the impact one leaves on others.
FAQ
What did Arnett Grant Bening do during World War II?
Arnett joined the U.S. Army Air Corps as an airborne radio operator mechanic with the 516th troop carrier squadron in 1944. He played a crucial role in guaranteeing communication and troop movement throughout crucial operations in England and Germany.
How long was his career in the life insurance industry?
Arnett had a highly successful 41-year career in life insurance. Beginning his job after college, he rose to become a branch manager in San Diego, retiring in 1991.
Who is his famous child?
Annette Bening, Arnett’s daughter, is a renowned actress who starred in American Beauty and The Kids Are All Right. The family takes pride in her film industry accomplishment.
What community organizations was he a part of?
During his lifetime, Arnett was highly involved in his community. He served as an active member of the American Legion, VFW, and Episcopal Church for life, always willing to help others.
What legacy does he leave behind?
Arnett Grant Bening’s legacy is characterized by service, integrity, and strong family values. His tireless military service, successful career, and community involvement left a lasting impression on his family and community.
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