Roger G. Bender, 85, of Cleveland, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 8, 2025 at Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice with his family by his side. He was born on September 27, 1940 to the late Erwin and Edna (Brendel) Bender. Roger attended Howards Grove High School. Roger proudly served in the U.S. Army.
On February 13, 1960, he was united in marriage to Shirley Lorenz, celebrating 65 years of marriage this past year. Together they raised four children in the house they built in 1965. Roger was a longtime member of Grace Lutheran Church serving in many capacities. He worked at Kohler Co. for 39 years before his retirement. Roger enjoyed snowmobiling, playing cards, shaking dice, gardening, woodworking and fishing. Many summer days were spent in Door County at the trailer. He was an avid sports fan.
Roger is survived by his wife Shirley Bender; children Vicki O’Day, Larry (Kristin) Bender, Jeffrey (Maria) Bender and Kristie (Kevin) Dirks; six grandchildren, Joshua Bender, Stephanie (Chimaobi) Mbanaso; Darrick O’Day, Levi (Nicole) Bender, Jamie (Kevin) Weidemann, Jenny (special friend Zach) Bender; nine great-grandchildren with one on the way; three step great-grandchildren; sister Judy Bender; in-laws Charlene Gumm, Ronald (LuAnn) Lorenz, Janice (Richard) Casper, Barbara (Steve) Berger, Judith (Dennis) Wallner, David Lorenz and Richard (Tina) Lorenz.
He was preceded in death by his parents Erwin and Edna Bender; brothers, Jerold, Kenny and Erwin Jr. Bender; parents-in-law Clemens and Florence Lorenz; brother-in-law Ken Gumm and sister-in-law Debbie Lorenz.
Visitation will take place on Thursday, November 13, 2025 from 9:00 am – 11:00 am at Zimmer Westview, W2132 Garton Rd. Sheboygan. A funeral service will immediately follow at 11:00 am, with Pastor Adam Barkley officiating. Entombment will take place at Greenlawn Memorial Park, Kohler.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to all who cared for him from Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice or Grace Lutheran Church.
Zimmer Westview Funeral & Cremation Care Center is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.zimmerfuneralhome.com.
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