After high school, Kerry enlisted into the U. S. Army, serving as an infantry rifleman in Vietnam. Upon his honorable discharge, he attended Oakland Community College (OCC), earning an Associate Degree in Liberal Arts. He then transferred from OCC to Michigan State University. While attending State, he met his future wife, Karen, a nursing student at the University of Michigan--yes, a house divided! Kerry later earned a Bachelor of Arts from St. Mary's College and a Master of Education from Marygrove College.

This enthusiastic professional's impressive work history includes his present career as an educator for over a decade. He has taught English, history, social studies and computer-aided design in both public and private schools.

For over 20 years he proudly served with the Michigan Army National Guard where he worked tirelessly to protect and defend the United States of America. He served with the military police on the home front during Desert Storm and in Iraq in 2007, at age 56, with an Artillery Unit in an administrative capacity. Kerry was medically evacuated from Iraq after suffering a neck injury and retired

Through his dedicated volunteering and work ethic, Mr. Bentivolio was able to effectively coordinate events in 1980 for then-candidate, Ronald Reagan. Kerry’s valiant mindset, innovative ideas and steadfast efforts made it possible for him to effectively raise funds and put together an organization necessary to establish housing for media crews that were covering the Republican National Convention. Kerry still considers President Ronald Reagan his favorite leader of the free world, and he honors the conservative values and good character of this popular president as a guide and moral compass for mentorship.

Kerry and his wife Karen, a nurse educator, have resided in Milford since 1982. They live on a small farm raising reindeer trained to pull Santa’s sleigh in various parades and special holiday events. They also maintain a small flock of chickens, a 25-hive apiary of honeybees, and a 115-vine vineyard. They have two adult children and three grandchildren.

Kerry Bentivolio lives an active life filled with friends, family and outdoor activities. In spare moments from his busy schedule, he is a sportsman and an avid bass fisherman. He also attempts golf whenever time permits and enjoys shooting clay pigeons