It is with great sadness the Calgary Stampeders learn of the death of ownership group member Kevin Bennett. He was 65.

“I’ve known Kevin for many years, even from before he was involved with the Stampeders,” said Calgary head coach Dave Dickenson. “He was a good person and he was always very supportive of the football team. It’s a big loss and I offer my condolences to his family and friends.”

Bennett enjoyed a long and successful career in Calgary’s oil and gas industry and in 2005 he was part of a local group that purchased the Stampeders and helped get the franchise back on track. The Stamps won three Grey Cups during Bennett’s time as a part-owner.

In addition to his business interests, Bennett was a recreational aviator, becoming a glider pilot at the age of 15 and flying a World War II-vintage Stearman biplane as a member of the Falcon Warbirds organization in Arizona.

Bennett is survived by his wife of 20 years, Patricia, his son Ryan, daughter Jennifer and two grandchildren. Kevin is also survived by his wife’s daughter Jennifer Simmons.

A private memorial service will be held at the family’s request.