The Bennett’s first family of British Columbia politics

W.A.C. and William R. Bennett: A Political Dynasty at Rest in Kelowna
Discovered at Kelowna Memorial Park Cemetery, British Columbia

On my walk through Kelowna Memorial Park Cemetery, I came upon the graves of father and son, both former Premiers of British Columbia: W.A.C. Bennett and his son, William (Bill) R. Bennett. Together, they helped shape the province across two generations — leaving very different but equally lasting legacies.

W.A.C. Bennett (1900–1975)

Known widely by his initials, W.A.C., William Andrew Cecil Bennett served as Premier from 1952 to 1972, making him the longest-serving premier in B.C. history. A member of the Social Credit Party, Bennett was a frugal, business-minded leader who famously governed the province much like he had once run his hardware store — watching every penny.

Under his leadership, B.C. saw massive economic growth and infrastructure development, including the establishment of BC Hydro and expansion of the province’s road network. He left office with the books balanced and a province transformed.

William R. Bennett (1932–2015)

Following in his father’s political footsteps, Bill Bennett succeeded him in office after W.A.C.’s resignation in 1972. Also elected as a Social Credit representative, Bill served as the 27th Premier of British Columbia from 1975 to 1986.

Where his father had been thrifty, Bill was a builder. His time in office was marked by major investments in infrastructure and international profile:

• He brought Expo 86 to Vancouver,

• Launched the SkyTrain,

• Built BC Place Stadium,

• And oversaw the construction of the Coquihalla Highway, linking the Lower Mainland to the Interior.

Years later, his hometown would honour him by naming the bridge across Okanagan Lake the William R. Bennett Bridge.

Mountain views from Kelowna Memorial Park Cemetery, B.C.