Donald F. Bendel, 95, a lifelong resident of Fort Wayne, died peacefully on April 17, 2024, at the home of his daughter. The only son of Francis and Elsie Bendel, he was born on February 22, 1929. He graduated from Central H.S. and was a member of the band, where met his future wife. He was a proud Army veteran and served honorably in the Korean War. His trip with the 23rd Honor Flight Northeast Indiana in 2017 was a remarkable highlight in his life. He worked in the retail men's clothing business and later in the transportation industry. He enjoyed Bible Study Fellowship, golf, traveling, volunteering, and gardening but above all he loved God, his country, and his family. He was a member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church and previously Trinity English and Epiphany Lutheran Churches. Surviving is his wife of 72 years, Martha, his daughter, Donna (Harry) Shook: son-in-law, Terry (Dana) Weibel: grandchildren, Mark (Pam) Novak, Megan (Doug) Curtis, Dirk (Karen) Novak, and Michael (Luchi) Wakeland: great-grandchildren, McKenna, Madison, Chase, Kaleb, Jordan, and Abby: brother-in-law: Ronald Ghormley and many beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Linda Weibel, and sisters, Lisetta Ghormley and Carol (Dave) Balser. Funeral service is at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 917 W. Jefferson Blvd., with visitation one hour prior. Visitation also from 4 pm to 7 pm on Monday, April 22, at FairHaven Funeral Home, 6557 N. Clinton Street. Burial following service at Lindenwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Honor Flight Northeast Indiana, Heartland Hospice, or Emmanuel Lutheran Church.