Obituary of Kenneth M. Benting

Kenneth Matthew Benting, 20 years old, of Pembroke MA, formerly of Hanover, MA, died suddenly early Friday morning, shortly after doing one of his favorite things in life-playing hockey. He was at Brockton Hospital and surrounded by family and friends. As a young child, influenced by his older brothers and following in the footsteps of his father Kenneth and his grandfather Robert, Matthew participated in various sports through Pembroke youth athletic programs. He later worked as a baseball umpire in the community. During his four years at Pembroke High School, Matthew played multiple sports. His passion for football was only second to hockey. Matthew’s leadership skills were apparent his senior year when he served as captain of the hockey team. He continued his support as a Pembroke Alumni through his participation in the annual hockey alumni event. Matthew served as a mentor to his younger brothers who are also hockey enthusiasts. Matthew’s exuberance for hockey was matched only by his mother Laura’s off ice participation, which was well known by all. Matthew recently finished his sophomore year, studying Criminal Justice at Bridgewater State University to enhance his dream of becoming a Law Enforcement Officer. He achieved academic status as a member of the Dean’s list. He also recently participated in an internship at the Norwell Police Department. He was a member of the BSU hockey team. He also played junior hockey and in several men’s hockey leagues. Matthew was an avid outdoorsman. He enjoyed boating, fishing, and skiing. He often vacationed at his family’s lake house in New Hampshire. He worked for the Duxbury Recreation Department as a lifeguard at Percy Walker Pool and Duxbury Beach. His talents went beyond sports. He loved to sing, dance, and play the drums. Matthew loved to spend time with his friends and family and was always the life of the party. Matthew was a friend to all and even though he is no longer with us physically, he will remain a part of everyone’s life, especially those who will receive his organs. Matthew is survived by his parents, Laura (Sheehan) and Kenneth Benting, and his four brothers James, Robert, Joseph and William; his grandparents Linda (Rauch) and Robert Benting, Judith (Vachon) and James Sheehan, his godson, Trevyn and niece Nevaeh, and a large extended family and friends. Visiting Hours will be held at the Shepherd Funeral Home, 7 Mattakeesett St. Pembroke on Tuesday June 14, from 4:00 to 8:00PM. A Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday June 15, at St. Theclas Church in Pembroke at 11:00AM. Internment will follow at Washington St. Cemetery in Norwell. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Kenneth “Matthew” Benting Memorial Scholarship Fund c/o Rockland Trust, P.O Box 1366, Pembroke, Ma 02359.