Gordon BENDER

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BENDER: Gordon Bender beloved husband of Ann, passed away peacefully at Peace Arch Hospital Wednesday August 17th in White Rock BC at the age of 82. Gordon was born in Neudorf, Saskatchewan April 23, 1929 and subsequently moved to Brandon. He began working at Canadian Motors and worked for 42 years until his retirement. He made many friends through his work and always had a smile for his customers, and a joke or two for his fellow employees! As all who knew him can attest, Gordon was one of the most entertaining and personable individuals they ever knew. He and Ann were married in 1959 in Brandon. Gordon was an avid water-skier and was one of the original members of the Minnedosa Mallards Ski Club. In fact, he was water-skiing well into his 60’s. He had a ton of energy and would never slow down. Gordon purchased a bit of land out by Alexander and proceeded to use up some of that excess energy farming it in his spare time. He put in some long hours for a few years, yet he always had time for his children. He took great pride in participating in the building of the family cabin at Thomas Lake. The Bender cottage was home to many good times for many friends and family and those memories will always be cherished. He had many other hobbies to keep him occupied over the years. He was the ultimate recycler…so much so he made many bottle trips to Regina! Gordon also enjoyed playing the guitar and I am sure “you are my Sunshine” will forever more bring a tear to the eye of all who knew him! Gordon also enjoyed his many holidays (Europe, Hawaii, Mexico, etc) enjoying the last few years in Palm Springs, one of his favourite places. He so looked forward to their move to White Rock last fall to spend more time with his last passion, his grandchildren, and luckily during his short time in White Rock, created many lasting memories for them. He is survived by his wife of 52 years Ann, Son Craig wife Cindy, Son Scott wife Tracey, Granddaugher Katie, Grandson Jenson, Daughter Janice husband Grant, Granddaughter Colleen husband Carlos, Great granddaughters Kiara and Mikaela., Grandson Ryan wife Steph, Sister Irene Erickson of Edmonton and was predeceased by his sister Alice Hooke of Brandon. Also survived by his Sisters-in-law Linda Hutton of Brandon and Karen Mains of Regina. He had many nieces and nephews who he cared deeply for and they were very close to him, particularly Candice, Chris, Kelly, Holly and Jeffrey. Gordon did not want a public service and really just wanted all his friends to remember him and have a toast on him during a time of your liking. On him didn’t mean he would pay though!! He always enjoyed being the center of attention just not in this fashion so please share your memories with friends and family and remember Gordon as he would like us all to, having fun, sharing good times and doing anything for his friends! At some point in the future we will be planning a small get together in Brandon whereas we can celebrate Gordon’s wonderful life with Friends and Family. Should friends so desire, donations may be made to The White Rock Hospice Society www.whiterockhospice.org

As published in Brandon Sun on Aug 25, 2011