Donald "Don" Andrew Bender's Obituary
Donald “Don” Andrew Bender, age 82, of Gainesville, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 22, 2025.
Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Don was the son of George Joseph and Mary Doris Clough Bender. During his early years, the family relocated to Miami, Florida, where he graduated from Archbishop Curley-Notre Dame High School. A gifted athlete, Don excelled in both track and baseball.
Don later moved to Citrus County, where he became a respected Real Estate Broker and an active member of the community. He dedicated many years to the Citrus County Fair Association’s livestock committee and supported local youth through his involvement in the 4-H Youth Program.
Don was a devoted fan of Gator sports. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and tending his garden with a green thumb. Don especially loved watching his granddaughter Molly play softball. He enjoyed his numerous fishing trips in Ozello with his grandson, Dylan and friend Frank Gray.
Above all, he was a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and a cherished friend to many.
Don is survived by his wife, Sandra Langford Bender; his sons, David G. Bender (Rachel) and Timothy E. Bender (Jessica); his sister, Kathleen Mondshein; his brother, Kenneth Bender; grandchildren, Dylan and Molly; great-granddaughter, Sawyer; the mother of his children, Karen Bender Bareletta, and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
In accordance with Don’s wishes, his ashes will be scattered at sea off the coast of Flagler Beach.
He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.
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