It is with great sadness that we announce that Donna Jean Bender (91) passed away peacefully in her home on September 26th, 2022 in Mesa, Arizona. She was born on March 3rd 1931 in Salem, Ohio to Hazel and Russell Allison. Donna was the 2nd of 6 children. She married the love of her life, Herman Bender, on February 4th, 1950 and they were happily married until his death from cancer on April 26th, 2004. Shortly after their marriage, they welcomed their daughter Penny. They started a new life in Arizona in 1956. Their son, Carl AKA Junior, was born in 1962. Donna was an avid reader.
Donna is predeceased by her husband Herman, son Carl, one brother, and two sisters.
Survivors include 2 sisters, her daughter Penny, grandchildren Scott, Lindsay, Christopher, Tiffany, Nicholas, and 3 step grandchildren Anthony, Andrew, and Aimee. Donna is also survived by 5 great grandchildren Gage, Jacque, Aurora, Caynan, and Elizabeth, and other family members and friends.
Donna brought joy and a smile to the face of everyone she met. She will be missed for her sense of humor and devotion to her family. We all loved her “high as the sky and deep as the ocean.”
A visitation is scheduled at 10:30 AM on October 10th at Bunker’s Garden Chapel, 33 North Centennial Way, Mesa, AZ 85201.
A graveside service will be scheduled immediately after at Mesa City Cemetery, 1212 N Center St, Mesa, AZ 85201.
Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
Rest in Peace Donna. I will remember you with a smile and love for the joy you brought to us all!!
RIP AUNT DONNA ❤️ PRAYERS TO ALL
My condolences to all the friends and family members of Donna Jean Bender. Praying for comfort during this difficult time.
Rest in peace, Aunt Donna. I will always remember your infectious laugh and sparky attitude. You will be missed by many. Sending all my love and prayers.
So glad I met you. Rest in peace. Prayers for your family
Donna has been my Mother-in-law (since I was 17), friend, & beloved Grandma to all my kids, may she rest in peace in the company of Herman, Carl, & all her loved ones. Remembering her spicy humor will always bring a smile to my face ❤️
Donna was always a kind, wonderful, super cool person. I was close friends with her son, Carl and remember hanging out at Herman and Donna’s. They were fun and everyone liked going over there. The world is a lesser place from her loss.
Rest in peace, Donna. Now you and Herman are reunited.
Will always remember the laughter. So glad I got to see you when you were in. You will be missed.