Richard Aurther Bender, Sr.

Richard Aurther “Dick” Bender, Sr., 90, of Three Oaks, died peacefully, Thursday, May 21, 2025, in the presence of his family.

His life began May 10, 1935 in Stevensville, Michigan, the first of two children born to George and Faith Bender. He married Diane Krone August 31, 1958 in Sawyer.

         Dick served proudly in the U.S. Navy. In his younger years, he often helped his father at The Royal Blue store in Sawyer with meat cutting and providing service. Dick went to college to study tool and die and afterwards pursued a career at Vickers Engineering. He enjoyed gardening with his wife on their property. Dick loved watching NASCAR. He always cheered for Chevy. Dick also was very proud of the fact that he shared his birthday with his youngest daughter Shannon, and his granddaughter Kyriea.

         Richard will be greatly missed by family and friends. two daughters, Renda (Joseph) DeMorrow of Hernando, Florida, Cindy (Jack Forker, Jr.) Bender of Three Oaks; one son, Richard (Sherrie) Bender II of Sawyer; six grandchildren, Kyriea, Dylan, Aaron, Richard III, Sophia, and David; one sister, Donna (Gene) Thomason of Sanford, Florida; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife of fifty-seven years, two daughters, Rebecah Bender (Moyer) and Shannon Bender (Milliken)

Family and friends will gather Wednesday, May 28, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. until time of service at 12:00 noon in Wagner Family Funerals Pobocik Chapel, 106 Ash Street East, Three Oaks.         The Reverend Brandon Wittig will be officiating

Richard will be laid to rest next to his wife in Riverside Cemetery where he will be awarded military honors.

The family prefers contributions in memory of Richard be made to Trinity Lutheran Church, 5791 Sawyer Road, Sawyer, Michigan 49125 or to Hospice at Home 4025 Health Park Lane, St. Joseph, Michigan 49128

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