Donald Bender

Donald Robert Bender, age 82, went to his heavenly home on March 3, 2018. He had an unwavering faith in Lord Jesus and was devoted to his family. He was born the first of four children to Emil and Vi Bender on June 18, 1935, Lodi, CA. He graduated from Lodi High School and retired with distinction from United Parcel Service after 33 years of service. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn, son Gary Bender of CA; step-daughter Nancy Bowles and her daughters, Amy and Jenna, of Nixa, MO; granddaughters Sherri Stiles and her husband Brian and their children, Allison, Lyla, Summer, Grant and James of Whiteman AFB; Susana Brandt and John Dendinger and their daughters, Mariah and Isabella of Nixa and one grandson, Jon Bender and his wife, Natalie, and their son, Leo; his sisters, Linda Kepford and her husband Jim, and Judy Kooyman, and sister-in-law, Martha Bender, all of California. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, and their families and many wonderful friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and three children, Danny, Michael and Lynn Bender and their mother, Wyoma Bender, and his brother, Tom Bender. During his lifetime Don worked as a volunteer with the poor and homeless. He was a member of South Gate Baptist Church, Springfield, MO, and an avid supporter of missions. In earlier years he taught Bible classes, served on several church committees and sang in the choir and men's quartet. More recently he enjoyed yard work, reading and especially the grand- and great-grandchildren. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, March 10, 2018 at South Gate Baptist, 5701 S. Farm Road 157, Springfield, MO 65810, with a light meal following the service. Pastor John Black will officiate. Arrangements provided by Adams Funeral Home, Nixa, MO In his honor, memorial contributions may be made to South Gate's foreign mission program or to Least of These Food Pantry, PO Box 808, Nixa, MO 65714.