Celeste Bennett

Celeste Elizabeth Bennett, 69, of Rockford, passed away on November 9, 2022, at East Bank Center in Loves Park. She was born on June 3, 1953, in Rockford; the daughter of Fred and Jennie (Brown) Stuhlmann. Celeste graduated from East High School in 1972 and attended Bauder Fashion College in Miami, FL. She was the manager of her father’s company, which she later purchased, Fred’s Rental and Concrete for many years. She also owned and operated Red Coach Bar in Machesney Park. She lived on a farm and had a passion for taking care of her rescue horses. She loved all animals, especially her cats and dogs. When time allowed, she really enjoyed boating and being out on the water. She was a loving mother, foster mother, and friend to many. Celeste is survived by her sons Christopher Bennett and Denny Hillyer, and grandson Johnathan Hillyer, great-granddaughter Adalynn, grandson Jo Jo; sister Helene Vanhyning; her friends Bonnie, Gina, Jennifer, John and Shirley Carter, Debbie and Dario Nanni. She is predeceased by her parents. Stateline Cremations is assisting the family, 712 Windsor Rd., Loves Park. www.statelinecremations.com