William (Bill) Bender, 72, Overland Park, KS, died January 2, 2025, at the home. Mr. Bender was born Sept. 25, 1952, in Kansas City, MO, the son of Floyd David Bender and Inez Joyce (Johnson) Bender. He attended Kansas City, KS schools and was a member of the Washington High School Class of 1970.
In 1971 he enlisted in the US. Army, doing his basic training at Fort Benning, GA. He was stationed at Fort Riley, KS, where he worked as a tank mechanic with the Big Red One armored division. In 1976, he was accepted into the Kansas City bricklayers union and worked with the Local BAC 15 for more than 30 years. He also worked for a time in construction in Saudi Arabia.
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Mr. Bender was an avid sportsman and traveled both nationally and internationally with the local fly-fishing community. He enjoyed nature and the outdoors. His favorite activity was being near the water and landing an especially challenging game fish.
He is survived by a son, David Bender, Tahlequah, OK; a brother, John Bender, Kansas City, MO, and two sisters, Liz Miller, Scottsdale, AZ, and Cynthia Bender, Tampa Bay, FL A celebration of life will be held at a later date and location to be announced.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to the American Cancer Society Donate Today | The American Cancer Society.
friend ,Atlanta ,Georgia
Bill, was a big part of our lives for many years and I have been enlighten because he was part of my life. He was very supportive when I was in the Military. Bill was an intelligent and talented brick layer, and in many other areas. I am so very sorry for your loss. Kathy Davison
Friend ,Rutland ,Vermont
I sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. He was fun to talk to with and I enjoyed his company. My condolences To his family and friends.
Friend ,Overland Park ,Kansas
So very many good memories of time spent together!! But I don’t think he ever forgave me for putting in an insert instead of a “real” fireplace and chimney when we built our house!! Bill was a masterful stonemason and great man. My condolences to David, Bill’s family and all those who loved him.
