A great love of Gene's was coaching. He coached winning teams on many levels: basketball, baseball and softball, for both boys and girls. In his later years, a great pleasure was attending his grandchildren's many sports and music activities. He even coached some of their teams, much to his enjoyment.
Left to cherish his memory, is his wife of 47 years, Sue of Fremont, and two children, Brian Bentley (and wife, Kelli) of Omaha, and Heidi Melcher of Waterloo, NE. Gene and Sue have five grandchildren: Jacob and Amanda Melcher and Brendan, Grace, and Claire Bentley. Gene has one sister, Mary Sheeks of Omaha, and four brothers: Duane Bentley of Clarinda, IA, Dean Bentley (and wife, Melba) of Council Bluffs, Kenneth Bentley (and wife, Judy) of Omaha, and Terry Bentley (and wife, Rebecca) of Riverton, Wyoming. In addition, Gene has a brother and sister-in-law, Eddie and Peggy Long of Kansas City and several nieces and nephews. Gene had a multitude of friends and people whose lives he has touched.
Gene leaves a legacy of the thousands of lives he has touched through his years of interaction with teachers, parents and children.
Visitation for Gene will be Monday from 3pm to 8pm with the family receiving friends from 6pm to 8pm at the Ludvigsen Mortuary Chapel in Fremont.
The funeral will be 10:30am, Tuesday April 5, at Westside Church in Omaha (15050 West Dodge Road). Graveside services will be 3:30pm at Ridge Cemetery in Fremont.
Memorials are suggested to the Scholarship Funds for Trinity Christian School & Omaha Christian Academy.
Condolences(24)
Kay Chambers
Carroll, Ia Wednesday, April 6, 2011 Mr. Bentley was my first principal when I came to Carroll to teach. Gene was a caring administrator who demonstrated true professionalism with his colleagues and students. By his example, he taught us to do our best each day and to make a difference for our students. His dedication to education will leave a long lasting influence through all the lives he touched along the way. I extend my sympathy to all his family. Kay ChambersDr. Sam Barfell
Loves Park, IL Wednesday, April 6, 2011 I know Gene best as a leader in Christian schooling. It is such an honor to know Gene and his ministry in Christian education at Trinity Christian School, and Omaha Christian Academy! I remember Gene sharing with his Christian school colleagues about the things he learned over the years as an educator. It reflections were insightful, wise, humorous, pithy, and relevant. But beyond all that, Gene was a reflection of Christ's love to the children he taught, and the schools he led.Dan Dreessen
Glidden, Ia Wednesday, April 6, 2011 I was lucky enough to have Gene as a princapal at carroll grade school, he was someone I looked up to. I was in Brains class and we played most sports together . .take care Brian and the rest of your familySharon Andrews Maly
Omaha, Ne Tuesday, April 5, 2011 Mr. Bentley was the best!!!!!!!!! He was my principal my first year of teaching in Millard, and we all loved him!!!!!!!! Thinking of you and your loss.Michelle Goodrich
Omaha, NE Tuesday, April 5, 2011 Countless children have been changed by the kindness and love of Jesus spread through Mr. Bentley. They will always remember the taps on the head and nods of approval he gave as he walked through the hallways. He spoke with quiet wisdom, meant what he said, and therefore earned the respect of those around him. I smile to think of him in Heaven now, able-bodied, surrounded by children. I look forward to seeing him again in eternity.David and Lora Farrell
Carroll, Ia Tuesday, April 5, 2011 We shall remember Gene as a professional educator, serving students and fellow educators with dignity and honor. While he was an Elementray Principal in Carroll, Iowa, he advanced the curriculum of the school and provided valuable leadership to the staff. There is a place in heaven for this man that did so much for others during his time here on earth.David Pauli
Omaha, NE Tuesday, April 5, 2011 I have know Gene as a mentor for over ten years. He truly lived out James 1:2 "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds." Through all of his physical challenges, Gene always showed joy to all he encountered. His testimony was strong! As for rewards in heaven, we all know that he blessed many lives on this earth, but I am confident that he is being told stories that are amazing him of lives he blessed with his kind, loving and strong leadership. May we all make wise invest in others the way Gene modled for us. Sue, Brian and Heidi, my prayer in the days, months, and years for you is John 16:33 "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." Sincerely, DaveRoger Holthaus
Omaha, Ne Tuesday, April 5, 2011 Be comforted knowing your family has many friends with you in this time of sorrow.June Westphal
Fremont, NE Monday, April 4, 2011 Sue and family, I am so sorry for the loss of your husband, father and grandfather. May all your happy memories help you thru the next few difficult days and weeks. You are in my thoughts and prayers.Peggy and Terry Duffy
Fremont, NE Monday, April 4, 2011 We are sorry to hear of your loss. We pray that God will draw you close and hold you tight.Frank Hermsen
Carroll, IA Monday, April 4, 2011 I extend my sympathy to Sue and family.Ruth Ruhrer
Chandler, AZ Monday, April 4, 2011 Sue and family, my thoughts & prayers are with you at this difficult time.Ron and Fran Witt
Omaha, NE Monday, April 4, 2011 Voices from your past - from Gene's days with the Millard Schools. Sue, we extend our sympathy to you and your family. You're in our prayers.Joleen David
Omaha, NE Monday, April 4, 2011 At a Rotary meeting last year, Gene reached out to me with a kindness I will always remember. Most of the members of my club are aware that one of my sons has special needs. But somehow, that day, Gene had become more specifically aware of my son's disorder and the challenges it presents to him and to me as his caregiver. He told me he admired me for carrying what must be a tough burden. I assured him that if Jason were his son, he would do the same. But even as I did so, I was grateful for his concern, and I felt lifted up by his support. He was a wonderful gentleman, and he will be missed, but never forgotten.Camille Hawk
Omaha, NE Monday, April 4, 2011 Sue and family: Gene was a kind and gentle man each time one of my family encountered him. My younger children who still attend OCA would always say they would see Mr. Bentley roaming the halls, talking to the teachers and the kids in such a friendly way. He often asked about others in our family, and had a real concern for everyone. We believe he is safe with our Lord in heaven, and free of pain. We commented last night at dinner that now he only needs to use his cane if he wants to in heaven (to look distinguished, not by necessity any longer). I can only imagine how deep your pain must go, but I also pray that you will find a comfort from the Holy Spirit and a sense of peace in celebration of his journey home. In Him, Jack and Camille Hawk and children (Ben, Joe, Elizabeth and Jacob)Tom Carsey
Chapel Hill, NC Monday, April 4, 2011 I was very sorry to learn of Gene's passing today. I'd like to offer my heartfelt condolences to Gene's family. I will be saying a prayer for you today. It is never easy to lose a loved one.Neal, Nancy and Aaron Greenberg (Ashley, too!)
Elkhorn, NE Monday, April 4, 2011 It is with a great smile on my face that I just read the rich and meaningful legacy of Mr. Bentley's life. With an even greater smile, I realize he is finally free of pain, and probably coaching all sorts of heavenly teams right now (heaven is filled with children!), along with our Master Coach, our Lord Jesus Christ. May the wonderful memories of this amazing man, allow over time, to bring more smiles through all your tears. We were so very blessed to have known him as an admiistrator for our children, and a family friend. We have all been greatly enriched by Mr. Bentley's presence in our lives. It warms my heart to recall the first time meeting Mr. and Mrs. Bentley, when joining the TCS staff as administrator. It was then we realized we had connections all the way back to both of our home towns. May the Lord strengthen your entire family in the days ahead with peace and comfort from heaven. Love and prayers, Nancy for allLaurie Crater Battles
Franklin, TN Monday, April 4, 2011 It was with tears in my eyes that I read Mr. Bentley's obituary. He truly took the gifts God had graciously poured on him and used them for God's glory to the fullest extent. I recall that he was a kind man. As an elementary school child I looked up to him as my principal and as the father of my closest friend. I felt so at home in the Bentley household. You will all remain in my prayers as I know the loss of this devoted father, grandfather and husband is especially profound. I love you Heidi and "Aunt Sue"!!Robin Anderson Leichty
Deshler, NE Sunday, April 3, 2011 Dear Family, I extend my deepest sympathy to you at this great time of loss but also of rejoicing, knowing Gene is home with his heavenly Father. During my time at Trinity Christian School as a teacher, while Gene was the principal I was so blessed by his leadership. He was a fine example of the Father Heart of God walking on the earth. Our students had the greatest respect and love for him and they knew he loved them and God. His legacy will live on forever as it wasn't built of things that rust, burn up or are of temporal value. You will be in my prayers.Terry and Monika Maides
Omaha, NE Sunday, April 3, 2011 Mr. Bentley was a wonderful man and great support to our children and us parents as we made the move to this new and different country. We will always treasure him as a wonderful father figure and mentor for our children. Our condolences to his whole family. Blessings from the Swiss Family. In HIS love, Terry and Monika MaidesTim & Deanna Thompson
Southaven, MS Sunday, April 3, 2011 We just heard about Gene's home-going and had only heard Friday that his health had deteriorated. Please accept our most heart-felt condolences! I rejoice that Gene is now free from suffering and with his Lord - but am so saddened by the loss of my friend! I really loved him as a brother and so enjoyed working with him at OCA. He was a dear man and was always so kind and supportive! I feel his loss keenly. We're praying for you and your family during these days. I know that you are happy that Gene is no longer suffering, but I'm sure the loss you must feel is great. May God fill your heart with His peace and grace! With love, Tim & Deanna ThompsonDelni
Omaha, Ne Saturday, April 2, 2011 We are so very sorry to hear about the loss of Gene. What a wonderful man to have walked this earth. It was an honor and joy to know and work with Gene. His Godly influence on me personally and all my children is beyond measurable. Sue may God's peace rest on you and your family. Belssings to you all, Delni, Matt, Josh, Micah and Hannah RasmussenCharles
, Saturday, April 2, 2011 I am so sorry to hear about Gene, I just wanted to give you my sincerest condolences and I hope all your wonderful memories, your family, and the words found ta John 5:28,29 pertaining to the resurrection and the hope of seeing our dead loved ones again on Earth can bring you comfort.Drew Beeber
Carroll, IA Tuesday, April 5, 2011 I will always remember his encouragement and kind words. Great coach, principal and father. Deepest sympathies to Brian, Heide and Sue.