Arthur Harold “Art” Bender, a resident of Oak Tree Villa, died in his home on Thanksgiving Day. He was 89.
Mr. Bender was born Nov. 22, 1920, in St. Louis, Mo. He served in the U.S. Air Force and was stationed in England during World War II, where he met his future wife, Jeanne, who traveled via the Queen Mary on the first ship of war brides to arrive in New York after the war. He called his war bride “Duchess” or “Babe,” and she cared for him devotedly during his final years, following a stroke in 2004.
Mr. Bender was a golfer for more than 50 years. He was a successful salesman and co-owner of the family fabrics store, The Yardbirds. He loved travel and adventure and had a great sense of humor, relatives said.
Months before his death, the Benders made a 14-day trip to New York City. As they were afraid for him to fly, the couple made the trip (with a wheelchair) by Amtrak.
He valued integrity and fair play and was a model neighbor and friend. Always impeccably dressed, Mr. Bender knew how to have a good time, according to his family.
Mr. Bender is survived by his wife of 66 years, Jeanne Bender; and daughters, Jenni Fox of Felton and Debbie Rosas Stewart of Portland.
No services are planned. The Neptune Society handled arrangements.
