Michael Carl "Mike" Bender, 75, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Monday, August 3, 2026. Born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Mike was the son of the late Vilas Carl and Dorothy (Pankop) Bender. He graduated from Elmhurst High School with the Class of 1969.
On a blind date, Mike met the love of his life, Lois Fennig, and that chance meeting blossomed into a beautiful marriage that spanned 51 years. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and countless adventures.
Mike began his working career at International Harvester. When the company left Fort Wayne, he accepted a position in grounds maintenance at Concordia Seminary. His love for landscaping continued to grow, leading him and a close friend to establish Dreamscape Landscape and Design. Never one to shy away from hard work, Mike spent his days creating beautiful landscapes while also working nights in indoor maintenance at Parkview Hospital. Sleep was often in short supply, but he never complained because he truly loved the work he did.
An avid outdoorsman, Mike looked forward each year to fishing trips to Canada with his friends. He also enjoyed camping, playing euchre with family and friends, and traveling. Although he was hesitant about taking his first cruise, Lois convinced him to give it a try, and together they went on to enjoy many more cruises over the years.
Mike never met a stranger. His friendly, talkative personality made it easy for him to strike up a conversation with anyone he met. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and rarely encountered a project he wasn't eager to tackle or a problem he wouldn't try to fix. Above all else, Michael cherished time with his grandchildren, who held a very special place in his heart. His faith was the foundation of his life, and he was a devoted member of Southwest Lutheran Church.
Mike is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Lois Bender; daughter, Carrie Haas; beloved grandchildren, Samuel, Caleb, Rilynn, and Josie Haas; twin sisters, LuAnn and JoAnn Bender; brothers, Bruce and Dennis Bender; and several nieces and nephews. Mike was preceded in death by his children, Jennifer Michelle and Christopher Michael Bender.
A Celebration of Mike's Life will be held at Southwest Lutheran Church on Wednesday, August 12, 2026 at 6pm, followed by food and fellowship.