James Bender Obituary

James Frederick Bender Sr., lovingly known as Jim, passed away on June 7, 2025. Born on July 10, 1943, in Stockton, California, Jim made Buckley, Washington, his home for over 30 years. A proud Marine, Jim served his country with honor as a Marine Corps flamethrower gunner, earning distinctions as an expert rifleman and pistol marksman, along with several other commendations. He was also a man of faith, raised in the Catholic Church, and he passed those values on to his children.
Jim had a knack for storytelling and loved to make everyone laugh with his endless collection of jokes. He especially enjoyed playing jokes on his children and grandkids, always keeping the family on their toes and filling their lives with laughter. He never missed a chance to share one of his signature Marine Corps jokes, the kind that would make everyone laugh and sometimes make his wife, Connie, shake her head with a smile. Jim also had a great appreciation for a delicious meal, whether it was a good steak dinner or a juicy burger from Wally's restaurant in Buckley, Washington.
Jim was incredibly proud of his children, each of whom started their own families and pursued their goals with dedication. His grandchildren were the light of his life; no matter what kind of day he was having, he would always light up when he saw them.
Jim found great joy in the simple pleasures of life, whether he was out on his beloved fishing boat, casting a line into the water, on a usual run for the newspaper, or piecing together intricate puzzles in his dedicated puzzle room. He had a deep love for animals, especially his dog, Finn.
He is survived by his loving wife, Connie Bender; his children, James Jr., Jason, Kristen, Jeff, and Jared; and his sister, Susan. Jim was preceded in death by his son Clayton and his parents, Arthur and Doris.