David (Dave) Lloyd Bender, age 89. Dave was the son of Raymond and Frieda Bender of Blue Island, Illinois, where he grew up and lived until retiring, after which he moved to Florida and later Las Vegas. Dave married Sandra Kay Olhrich in 1961, and they were married for 64 years.

Dave is survived by wife Sandy, son Paul (Jean), daughter Susan, daughter in-law Linda, sister Mary, grandchildren Tracy, Cristin (RJ), Steffany, Jenna (Karl), David, Jeremy (Christina), and Jessalyn (Tom), as well as 20 great grandchildren and two great, great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by son Ronny, sister Ruth and granddaughter Denise.

Dave grew up playing sports with the neighborhood kids as there were no organized leagues. In high school he played baseball and basketball, but knee troubles limited his playing time. His love of sports continued as a father, attending each kid’s activities and volunteering to coach, umpire, or referee. After retiring to Florida, he played senior men’s softball until he was almost 80, then when he physically couldn’t play any longer, he umpired.

After high school and a short college stint, Dave joined the Navy. After the Navy, he returned home and worked at Clark Oil Refinery for 33 years until retirement in 1998. He worked swing shift for most of his career there. Dave also worked part-time construction and converted the attic of the family’s home into a bedroom for Paul and Ronny. He was handy, fixing most things himself and helping others with repair work.

Dave had an interest in history, including reading numerous books on historical topics and visiting historical sites while he and Sandy road-tripped cross country during retirement, visiting 22 National Parks and most states along the way. He had a natural curiosity and enjoyed engaging with others to learn something new.

Dave will be remembered as a good husband, father, grandfather, friend, and co-worker.

The family wishes to thank the wonderful staff of Graceful Grove and Valley Hospice for the care given to Dave these last few months.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, June 13th from 5:00 to 7:30 at Aurelios Pizza Party room, 18162 Harwood Avenue, Homewood IL 60430. 

Memorial donations in Dave’s name can be made to Highland Friendship Club, PO Box 16437, St. Paul, MN 55116 or online at https://wl.donorperfect.net/w… or to a charity of choice.

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