Anni Marie Bender, 69, of Milford, passed away Sunday, Nov. 2, at Lakeland Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center.

She was born Aug. 18, 1945, in Klagenfurt, Austria to Wilhelm and Anna (Liske) Lange. On Feb. 3, 1968, she married Richard Bender at the Bethany Church of the Brethren.

A teacher at Milford Elementary School for 18 years, Mrs. Bender enjoyed traveling to Europe, especially Austria and Germany. She also enjoyed flower gardening and cooking. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought her immense joy.

He survives along with three daughters: Jennifer Bender, Syracuse; Julie (Brandon) Blosser, Nappanee; and Stephanie (Ben) Brown, Indianapolis; three grandchildren: Justine (David) Roe, Noah Blosser and Nora Brown; two great-grandsons: Jett and Asher Roe; a sister: Helen (Don A.)Troyer, Milford; and a brother: Gene Lange, Syracuse.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two sons: Richard and Jason Ray Bender; a brother: George Lange; and a sister: Lola Eisenhour.

Visitation will be from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 5, at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 6, at Bethany Church of the Brethren, New Paris. Pastors Tim Sollenberger Morphew and Norm Reimer will officiate. In accordance with Anni’s wishes, cremation will take place at Yoder-Culp Crematory.

Memorial contributions may be made to Riley Children’s Foundation.