Elaine G. Bender

Elaine passed away Wednesday, November 16, 2022 at New Hope Bay Assisted Living at the age of 91 years. She was born in Bay City on February 28, 1931 to the late Carl and Beatrice (Roby) Nelson. Elaine married Donald Bender on November 1, 1968 and they were married for 50 years until he passed away on December 2, 2018. Elaine was a member of Faith Lutheran Church for many years. She was an avid fisherman and still holds the state record for the largest Atlantic Salmon. In her spare time, she also enjoyed camping and spending time with her family and friends.
Elaine is survived by her son, Scott Bender; daughter, Katherine Bender; grandchildren, Kristina Barber, J.D. (Kristy) Butler and Dayle Butler; great grandchildren, Scottie, Anthony and Cheyenne; daughter-in-law, Linda Martin; nieces, Kimmy, Tamara and Dana. In addition to her parents and husband, she was also preceded in death by her son, Mark Bender and sisters, Beverly (George) Reif and Joann Nelson.
Funeral and committal service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 22, 2022 at Faith Lutheran Church. Officiating will be Pastor Gary Bender with private inurnment in Floral Gardens Cemetery. Friends may visit at the Gephart Funeral Home on Monday, November 21, 2022 from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. Mrs. Bender will be taken to the church to lie in state on Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Contributions may be made to the wishes of the family. For online condolences, visit www.gephartfuneralhome.com