Donald C. Bender “D,” of Porter, died Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2005 at V.N.A. Hospice Center, Valparaiso. He was 79.

He was born Sept. 3, 1926 in Chicago, the son of Anton C. and Florence (Seabold) Bender, both of whom preceded him in death.

He is survived by his fiancée Patricia A. Burger and family of Dyer, Ind.

He is also survived by a son, Richard A. Bender of Valparaiso; a daughter, Donna (Barney) Michaels of Chesterton; a sister, Doris (Russell) Kemp of Plainfield, Ill.; six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

“D” was retired as a supervisor for Conrail Railroad, where he was employed for 43 years. He enjoyed bike riding and traveling.

Graveside Services will be at 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 28 at Graceland Cemetery, Valparaiso.

Memorials may be given to the VNA Hospice Center, 501 Marquette St., Valparaiso, IN 46383.

Arrangements were handled by Edmonds & Evans Funeral Home, Chesterton.

Posted 10/27/2005