Mary Catherine “Kate” Bender, 94, Wakarusa, died peacefully at 3:20 p.m. Friday, July 12, 2024, at her residence after a brief illness.

She was born April 8, 1930. On Jan. 9, 1949, she married Francis M. Bender; he preceded her in death on Sept. 17, 2023.

Survivors include her sons, Steve (Ida) Bender, New Paris, Phil (Patty) Bender, Fishers, and Curtis John (Deb) Bender, New Paris; 11 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Velma Miller, Goshen.

Thompson-Lengacher and Yoder Funeral Homes is handling arrangements.