Clarence "Junior" Bender

Clarence Taylor Bender Junior, age 78, passed away on Tuesday, August 16, 2011 at his residence. He was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan to Clarence and Alta (McMichael) Bender on March 9, 1933.

A 1951 graduate from Albion High School, he was a basketball and track standout and held school records for several years in high hurdles and the 400 yard relay. On August 30, 1952 he married Carol Aller at Albion First Methodist Church. His continued love of sports and the outdoors continued with him spending several years coaching little league, attending as many sporting events of his kids, grandchildren and great-grandchildren as possible. He loved to fish and hunt and shared that passion with his family and friends. He retired from Dana Corporation with over 30 years of service and also farmed.

He shared with his wife, Carol, a family of five children, Suzanne and (Ernie) Hinegardner of Wapakoneta, Ohio, William Douglas and (Rhonda) Bender of Greenwood, South Carolina, Donald Craig and (Jessie) Bender of Albion, Indiana and Dr. Thomas Mitchell Bender and (Amanda) Bender of Huntsville, Alabama. He also had 14 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Alta Bender; one daughter, Kelly Jo Bender; a brother, William Harris Bender; and a nephew, William (Billy)Bender, of LaGrange.

A funeral service will be held in Junior’s honor on Saturday, August 20, 2011 at 10:30 AM at Yeager Funeral Home, 1589 Lincolnway South; Ligonier, IN 46767 with Pastor Troy Diersing officiating. Burial will be in Sparta Cemetery in Kimmell.

Friends may call from 2-4 & 6-8 PM on Friday, August 19, 2011 at the funeral home. Memorials are to Riley's Children's Foundation, 30 South Meridian St., Suite 200, Indianapolis, IN 46204.