BENDER, Leroy “Lee” John, loving father and grandfather, passed away on Friday, December 16, 2011 at Cartwright Hospice Residence. Age 96 years. Leroy Bender was born on September 22, 1915 in Saginaw to the late Otto and Kathrina (Volz) Bender. He was married to Stella Mary Jarzabkowski on May 22, 1946 in Saginaw at Holy Rosary Catholic Church. She predeceased him on November 9, 1990.

Leroy had been employed by General Motors Corporation at the Chevrolet Transmission Plant for 39 years before retiring in 1975. He proudly served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Leroy was a lifetime member of St. John Lutheran Church and was very devoted in his faith. He was raised on a farm and always loved gardening.

Leroy is survived by a daughter and two sons: Judith (Ron) Haeske, Ronald (Janis) Bender, and Bruce Bender; four loving grandchildren: Jill Ann Bender, Julie Marie Bender, Ronald Paul Bender and Ryan Stuart-Lee Bender; and several nieces and nephews.

Leroy was predeceased by his three brothers: Otto, Martin, and Edward Bender; and his two sisters: Martha and Elizabeth.

FUNERAL: Leroy’s Funeral Service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 19, 2011 at St. John Lutheran Church, 915 Federal. Rev. Paulette Cummings will officiate with burial in St. Andrew Cemetery.

VISITATION: Friends are welcome to visit at the Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd. (off State) on Sunday, December 18, 2011 from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and on Monday at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service.

MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to St. John Lutheran Church. Please share your thoughts and memories with Leroy’s family at the church, funeral home or through www.DeislerFuneralHome.com.