AUGUSTA - Bennett Katz, former majority leader of the Maine Senate, prominent business owner and the driving force in bringing higher education to central Maine, died Thursday at the age of 89.

Katz began forging a vision in 1965 that led to the creation of the University of Maine at Augusta. The university has since helped thousands of central Mainers further their educations and better their lives. The university's library is named in his honor.

Katz was a longtime owner of downtown Augusta jewelry shop Nicolson and Ryan, and was also involved in other businesses.

He served as a trustee of the University of Maine System and treasurer of the New England Board of Higher Education.

"After family, he was most proud of his role in helping create the University of Maine at Augusta," said Bennett Katz's son, Augusta Mayor Roger Katz. "He took great satisfaction over the years in seeing the thousands of Maine kids and adults able to improve their lives by taking advantage of the opportunities that UMA offered."

Services are planned Sunday at 10:30 a.m. in Jewett Hall at UMA.