- Date Of Birth: October 21, 1947
- Date Of Death: August 20, 2011
- State: Indiana
Kenneth L. Bender, 63, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, Aug. 20, 2011, after a brief illness.
He spent his days surrounded by his family and many friends at the Begley farm he loved so well. A beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, Kenny was a lifelong resident of Elkhart. He was a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps and an avid Harley-Davidson enthusiast.
He was born on Oct. 21, 1947, in Elkhart to Kenneth and Emily (Melkus) Bender. Following the death of his father, he was raised by Bud and Norma Berry of Elkhart. Left to cherish his memory are his daughters, Ginger (Brian) Hartman of Niles, Mich., Trina (Peewee) Craft of Bristol, and Heidi Bjoraas of Elkhart; his sisters, Shirley (Chuck Popke) Herald of Elkhart and Kelli (Alex) Robertson of Manchester, Tenn.; four grandchildren; a great-grandson due in November; 10 nieces and nephews; and his companion, Traci Welch. He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters Sally Godshalk and Patricia Moran; and adoptive father Bud Berry.
Kenny owned Bender Trucking and later worked as a wholesale auto buyer before retiring. Known as “KB” to his buddies, he loved riding his Harley and spent many happy days as a member of A-Alley. He found the best in people and was a truly good soul. He was a wonderful, loving father, brother, and friend and will be forever remembered in the hearts of those who knew him.
Known for his kind heart and generous spirit, he was blessed with many friends and lived a life well-lived.
