BENDER: Irene Lucille Bender (nee Adams) of Oak Lake, Manitoba, passed away at the Brandon Regional Health Centre on Friday, September 24, 2004. Irene was born in Bassano, Alberta on November 1, 1920, one of nine children born to Jesse and Kristina Adams. She grew up on the farm near the town of Rosemary, Alberta. On June 7, 1941, Irene married George Bender and spent the next several years as a "stay at home Mom" raising daughters, Sharon and Marilyne. She was an avid golf and curling enthusiast and in her early years participated in several bonspiels and golf tournaments. In later years, when her health wouldn't allow her to actively participate, she still enjoyed watching sports on Television. She was the Blue Jay's #1 fan. In 1967, Irene was very proud to accept a position at the Brandon Mental Health Centre in the Occupational Therapy Department and spent the next 12 years happily working with the patients. She decided to take an early retirement in 1979. She and George spent the next 15 winters travelling to Arizona where they made numerous new friends and spent as much time as possible on the golf course together. Irene was well known by her friends and family as being tough and determined. She made a difference in our world. Irene died peacefully, knowing that she was much loved and that she was going to be with her daughter, Marilyne. She was also confident that with God's help and the support of each other her family would be strong. Irene is survived by: her loving husband of 63 years, George Bender; daughter, Sharon (Jack) Fordyce and their family, Brandon and Annie (Riley and Pacey), Ryan and Stevie (Josh and Gabriel); son-in-law, Bill Fidler and his family, daughter, Lori and husband Milan Zikmund (Marlin, Marcus and Milan), sons, Will and wife Nicole and Rick. She is also survived by: her brother, Jack (Leah); sister, Minnie; two brothers-in-law; one sister-in-law; and several nieces and nephews. Irene was predeceased by: one brother and five sisters; and on March 14, 2004, by her loving daughter, Marilyne Fidler. The Funeral Ceremony was held at the Oak Lake United Church on Wednesday, September 29, 2004. Pam Dean officiated. Urn Bearers were her grandson's, Brandon and Ryan Fordyce. Interment followed in the Rosewood Memorial Gardens. Friends who wish may make a donation in memory of Irene to the Canadian Cancer Society, Manitoba Division, 193 Sherbrook Street, Winnipeg MB R3C 2B7. Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded to memorieschapel@mts.net. Arrangements were with Memories Chapel & Pre-Planning Centre, 727-0330.Memorials
Canadian Cancer Society