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, Peter 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.

Peter’s family would like to thank the doctors and staff of The Cancer Center in Eau Claire and the staff of Mayo Clinic Home Health and Hospice of Eau Claire for all the loving care of Peter.

Funeral Mass will be 4:00 PM Friday, October 21, 2016 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church at 1712 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.

Condolences

1. Bob Brunner October 31, 2016, at 4:55pm

   Pete was an AWESOME person and a Godfather to Kaitlyn whom he remembered every year. He was a JOY to talk to and always had an inspiring word. We will miss you greatly and thanks for ALL of the memories. Pete and Toots treated us so GREATLY throughout the years, both in Carmel and in Eau Claire. We truly appreciated it!! Bob, Nancy, Mercedes, Kaitlyn, and Madison.

2. nancy mccombs October 27, 2016, at 4:26pm

   so sad to get this news. Peter was the reason i went to Ohio Wesleyan, to be near him. he was a sweetheart and I'm sorry for you loss.

3. Ray Smith October 24, 2016, at 12:56pm

   Always enjoyed talking to Peter, whether at work or personally. Enjoyed family fun times he shared as well.

   He will be remembered and missed.
   Ray

4. Pam Bluem October 24, 2016, at 9:48am

   I am so sorry for your loss. Praying the Lord will give you strength, peace and comfort at this sad time.

5. Nicholas Brunner October 23, 2016, at 1:20pm

   Tootsie,

   Sending you much love during this tough time. Pete was a great man who enjoyed his life to the fullest. I am quite sad I can not make it back to Durand for the services. I hope that those who can will be most kind and supportive to you and all of the family.

   My deepest regards,

   Nick

6. Dennis Bauer October 21, 2016, at 9:24am

   Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

7. Sharon Cole Coon October 21, 2016, at 9:07am

   Maureen: Not sure if you will remember me, but we worked at R.W. Scobie together many, many, years ago. Sorry to hear of your husband's passing. Will keep your family in my thoughts and prayers.

8. Kris (Spindler) Unser October 21, 2016, at 7:50am

   So very sorry to hear of the loss of your husband. Life is so precious, keep the memories and let Jesus be your guide, for in him is great comfort. You will be together again one day. Love & Prayers,

9. David & Gin Wolske October 21, 2016, at 6:35am

   We are so sorry to hear of Peters passing.
   David was having chemo at the same time as Peter. Prayed for him every night!!!!
   God be with your family!!!
   Gin

10. Bill McCormick October 20, 2016, at 12:42pm

    Courtney- Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.

11. Jason Quinlan October 20, 2016, at 12:41pm

    Courtney, I am so sorry to hear about your father. You are a special person and I know he played a huge role in that. Thoughts and prayers.

12. Joan Deeds October 20, 2016, at 12:36pm

    Please accept my heartfelt condolences for your loss of this fine man and wonderful father. I know he will be
    forever missed.

13. Linda Gardner October 20, 2016, at 9:49am

    My sympathy to you and your family.

14. Rich & Jean Kent October 20, 2016, at 5:17am

    Maureen and Courtney,
    Please accept our condolences and know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.

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