William Harris Bentley

William Harris Bentley, 75, Wyomissing, passed away after a short illness on April 4 in his home with his family by his side.

He was the husband of Judy (Hommas) Bentley. His first wife, Dorothy K. Bentley, a local artist, passed away in 1995.

Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, he was the only child of the late Dorothy (Harris) and Edward Bentley.

He attended Cornell University where he received his BS in Physics Engineering, and Harvard University, where he earned his MBA. He served as a First Lieutenant in the Air Force for two years between his undergraduate and graduate studies.

Bill started his business career in 1958 at Cincinnati Milling Machine Company (later Milacron), where he advanced to become president of the Cincinnati lathe and Tool division when he was 32 years old. In 1974, he and his family moved to Reading where he was president of the Rockwell International textile machine division. In 1978, he purchased American Polarizers, Inc. from Smith Kline French (now Glaxo Smith Kline). He retired in 1998.

He was an avid golfer. He loved flying, having gotten his pilot's license in 1959. He was also an excellent piano player. Bill will be remembered for his love and wonder of science, sharp wit and deep knowledge of many subjects.

He is survived by a daughter, Victoria, wife of Mark Mayhew, Sr., and son, Nicholas, husband of Amy Lipton, and a stepson, Eric Hommas. He is also survived by four grandchildren: Lily Bentley, Jillian Hommas, Mark Mayhew, and Max Mayhew.

Family and friends may call on Tuesday from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home, Inc., West Reading. A private graveside service will be held. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 498 Bellevue Ave., Reading, Pa 19605. www.kuhnfuneralhome.com