Ann BENDER

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BENDER: With deep sorrow the family wishes to announce Ann Bender (nee Mains), 78, Mother, Grandmother, Sister, Aunt and Friend, peacefully passed away on July 30th, 2016 in Surrey, B.C. Preceded in death by her husband Gordon Bender in August 2011. Ann is survived by her sons Craig Bender and wife Cindy; Scott Bender and wife Tracey, grandchildren Katie and Jenson; sisters Linda Hutton and Karen Mains; and many nieces and nephews with whom she had an extremely close relationship. Ann was born in Winnipeg, raised in Brandon and attended St. Michaels Academy. Ann along with her sisters and parents Evelyn and John shared many fun and memorable times at Clear Lake at their cabin. Ann met Gordon and the two were married in 1959. A few years later they were blessed with the arrival of their two boys, Craig and Scott. Once the boys were a bit older, Ann accepted a provincial government job at the department of Culture, Heritage and Recreation and stayed there until her retirement. Ann loved the work, and more importantly, she loved the people she worked with. Ann cherished the friends she met throughout her life keeping in touch with many; from her school mates, bowling buddies, Ashgrove gang and coworkers, to the more recent friends she met after moving into Monterrey Estates. She enjoyed the potlucks, the happy hours and many coffee times with all of you. The Bender cabin at Thomas Lake was a great place for family and friends to gather. Ann loved to have her friends, her son's friends, and all the relatives drop by to spend time with the two of them at the cabin. It was like the meeting place we all hope for, where everyone wants be on a hot summer day. She spoke fondly of those memorable days at the lake! Ann enjoyed travelling with Gordon, her boys and many friends and extended family on trips to Hawaii, California or simply to Spruce Woods Provincial Park. The pop up camper did not last long in the Bender family! Travelling made for many of Ann’s fondest memories and upon retirement, Ann and Gordon spent the winters in Palm Springs where they enjoyed the warm weather for many years. In 2010, they moved to White Rock, B.C. to be closer to their grandchildren Katie and Jenson. Their time together in B.C. was not long unfortunately, as Gordon passed away soon after moving. Ann and Gordon had a lot of fun and laughs together and now are reunited and planning their next adventure! A private service for family will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the charity of choice.

As published in Brandon Sun on Aug 05, 2016