It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of John Edward Bender III on November 14, 2025, a man whose compassion, humor, and unwavering kindness left a permanent mark on every life he touched.

At 83 years old, John lived a life defined not by what he owned, but by what he gave: his time, his guidance, his laughter, and his faith. Born October 25, 1942 in Cleveland, Ohio, John was the son of the late Bertha Bender (nee Fechtner) and John Edward Bender II. From a young age, he had a gift for empathy and a deep belief in the good within others that shaped the husband, father, grandfather, friend, and spiritual christian he fully lived.

John’s greatest joy was his family, which he prioritized above all. He is survived by his beloved wife, Zoraida (nee Feliciano); cherished son, John; his Spanish heart, Julianna Sepsi (Michael); daughter Christina Polster (Jason); and his honey bee, Melissa Wilson (Derek). John is also survived by his grandchildren, Christian (13); Benjamin (11); Charlotte (8); and Emmy (5). He is lastly survived by his dearly loved siblings, brother Christian (Carol); sister Bertha-Joyce; and Blanche-Dolly. 

John earned his trade over the years as a precision machinist, and dedicated quality control engineer. John was an intuitively gifted plastic artist and jazz musician, especially drawn to the tenor saxophone, which he played with soul and joy to many in Cleveland in the 60’s and 70’s. Music wasn’t just sound to him, it moved him; it was John’s expression. 

John’s life will be honored at a Celebration of Life gathering at Hawkins Hall on November 24, 2025 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. 

Hawkins Hall is located within the Olmsted Community Center at 8170 Mapleway Drive Olmsted Falls, OH 44138. 

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