Lana Rae Bennett

Lana Rae Bennett, 75, of Salamanca, NY passed on Wednesday, May 18, 2016 after a long illness.

She was born April 23, 1941 in Buffalo, NY, the daughter of Benjamin H. Bennett and Ruby A. Spring of the Cattaraugus Territory of the Seneca Nation. She was the youngest of nine children.

She graduated from Bennett High School of Buffalo, New York and received an AAS degree in Addiction Studies along with a certificate in Human Services Substance Abuse from Spokane Falls Community College, Spokane, Washington, and a Bachelor of Science degree from SUNY Empire State College, Saratoga Springs, New York.

She was an enrolled member of the Seneca Nation of Indians, Wolf Clan. She enjoyed spending time at the casino with friends and family.

She is survived by two sons, James Crowley and John Crowley, both of Jimersontown, New York, a daughter, Gina Nelligan of Siloam Springs, Arkansas, eight grandchildren, and her beloved pets, Sydney, Isolde, Declan, and Chipeta.

She was a Friend of Bill’s for 35 years.

Friends may call at O’Rourke & O’Rourke Funeral Home, 25 River Street, Salamanca, New York on Saturday, May 21, 2016 from 1 – 3 p.m., at which time funeral services will be held.

Burial will be in Hillside Haven Cemetery, Steamburg, New York.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to the SPCA of Cattaraugus County, New York.

E-condolences can be sent to john@orourke-orourke.com or posted to facebook.com/onofh.