Robert Allen Bender

Robert “Bob” Allen Bender, 76, of Stevensville, MI, passed away on Monday, October 17, 2016 at Woodland Terrace in Bridgman, MI. A Celebration of Life Service will take place on Friday, October 21, 2016 at 11:00 AM at Starks & Menchinger Chapel & Cremation Services, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph, with V. Rev. Robert Creagan officiating. Friends may visit with the family from 10:00 AM until the time of the service at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, MI, at a later time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice at Home or Stevensville American Legion Post #568. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Robert was born on December 31, 1939 in St. Joseph, MI, to Allen and Gertrude (Lewandowski) Bender. After graduating from St. Joseph Catholic High School in 1958, he enlisted in the United States Air Force serving until his honorable discharge in 1962.  Robert then joined and became owner of the family business, Lakeshore Distributing Co. until he retired in 2002.  He was a member of the Stevensville American Legion Post #568 (54 years) and served on the Stevensville Blossomtime Committee.  He was also a member of the St. Joe Kickers, Elks and Moose Clubs.  Robert enjoyed competing in bowling tournaments across the country and was in numerous golf leagues.  He was an avid Cubs and Bears fan. Robert is survived by two sisters Ruth Fricke of Watervliet, MI, and Rhonda (DeWayne) Crippin of Three Oaks, MI; niece Kari (Peter) Stevens of St. Joseph, MI,; great-nephew Blake Stevens of St. Joseph, MI; sister-in-law, Pam Bender of Stevensville, MI; and caregiver Gayle Hofbauer of Stevensville, MI. Robert was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Tina Erb; brother, Ronald Bender; brother-in-law Robert Fricke; and special partner of 26 years, Jane Cuthbert.