Peter Bennett Kent, age 71 of Eau Claire, died Wednesday, October 19, 2016 at his home in Eau Claire with his family by his side after a yearlong battle with bile duct cancer.
Peter was born on June 24, 1945 in Philadelphia, PA. He was the son of Arthur B. and Martha (Reynolds) Kent. Peter grew up in Swarthmore and he graduated from Swarthmore High School in 1963. He then attended Denison University in Granville, OH and graduated with a BA in English. Peter then enlisted into the U.S. Army and served in Germany until he was Honorably Discharged. After the Army, Peter started his career in the insurance industry. Peter married Joan Deeds and together they had one daughter and later divorced. He then married Maureen (Brunner) Doughty January 7, 1989 in Indianapolis, IN. Peter spent most of his career in Indianapolis until he retired 2002. In 2004, Pete and Maureen moved to Eau Claire where he remained the rest of his life.
Peter enjoyed golfing, reading, running and spending some winter months in Pine Island, FL. He volunteered at St. Francis Food Pantry in Eau Claire and was an active member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Eau Claire. Most of all, Peter loved to spend time with family and friends.
Peter is survived by his wife; Maureen, one daughter; Courtney Kent of New Orleans, LA, one step-son; Andrew (Sarah) Doughty of Brookfield, WI step-grandchildren; Erin and Remington Doughty, two brothers; Richard (Jean) of Littleton, MA and Jim Kent of Asheville, NC, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents.
Funeral Mass will be 4:00 PM Friday, October 21, 2016 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church at 712 Highland Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701 with Rev. Don Meuret officiating. Friends may call one hour prior to services at the church on Friday. Private family burial will be at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Peter’s name to the St. Francis Food Pantry in Eau Claire or the American Cancer Society.
Rhiel Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Durand, is serving the family.