Bennett H. Yarrington

Bennett Harold “Ben” Yarrington, 89, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2026.

Ben was born on March 31, 1937, in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, to Harold and Phyllis Yarrington. He attended Eau Claire Senior High School before continuing his education at Dunwoody College in Minnesota, where he studied radio, television, and electronics. Those studies became the foundation of a lifelong passion and career.

Ben dedicated his entire professional career to Pope and Talbot, where his knowledge, work ethic, and technical abilities earned the respect of those around him. Even after retirement, his curiosity never faded. He could often be found tinkering with electronics, building or repairing computers, or writing computer code simply for the enjoyment of learning and solving problems.

Ben married the love of his life, Elizabeth “Betty” Louise Anderson, with whom he shared many wonderful years. Together they made their home in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, where they raised their family and built a life filled with love and lasting memories. Ben and Betty remained devoted to one another until her passing in 1995. He was later blessed to find love again with his longtime fiancée, Carolyn Schmelzer, who also preceded him in death.

Family was at the heart of Ben’s life. He is survived by his son, Larry (Barb) Yarrington of Spring Valley; sister, Barb (Glenn) Neubauer; his grandchildren, Renee (Jamie) Close, Heather Rajotte, Rachel Rineck, Melissa ( Ben) Yarrington, Jayrd (Sabrina) Yarrington, Sarah (Pat) Fanning, Kevin (Leanne) Yarrington, Krista (Davyn) James, Evan (Tara) Carmen, and Keira (Dylan) Ring; many beloved great-grandchildren; and very special friend Bea.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Phyllis Yarrington; his brother, Roger Yarrington; his wife, Elizabeth Louise Yarrington; his longtime fiancée, Carolyn Schmelzer; his children, Joy Renick, Carol Carmen, Keith and Delbert Yarrington; and his grandson, Bryan Yarrington.

Those who knew Ben will remember his quick wit, infectious sense of humor, and remarkable ability to fix just about anything electronic. He had a sharp mind, a love of technology long before it became commonplace, and a curiosity that stayed with him throughout his life. Whether he was troubleshooting a television, building a computer, writing code, or simply finding a creative solution to a problem, Ben loved understanding how things worked. His humor remained with him until the very end, bringing smiles to those fortunate enough to spend time with him.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Beehive Homes of Eau Claire for the exceptional care, kindness, and friendship they showed Ben over the last several years. Your unwavering support, patience, and genuine love allowed him to feel at home and surrounded by family. We are deeply grateful for the dignity and joy you brought to his life, and your kindness will never be forgotten.

Ben’s legacy lives on through the family he loved, the knowledge he shared, and the countless memories created over a lifetime. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

The funeral service will be at 11 a.m. on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at Pederson-Volker Funeral Chapel, with a visitation one hour prior to the service. The interment will be in Prairie View Cemetery, Village of Lake Hallie.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to BeeHive Homes of Eau Claire - Assisted Living, 5059 Stonewood Dr, Eau Claire, WI 54703.