Joh Pbender , February 24, 1940 — October 15, 2018

Obituary of John Bender John P. Bender, age 78 of Corning, NY passed away on Monday, October 15, 2018 at the Bath VA Medical Center after a lengthy illness. Mr. Bender was born on February 24, 1940 to Roy and Pricilla Bender in Sayre, PA. John graduated in 1959 from Williamson High School in Tioga, PA.

He was an outstanding athlete, as a freshman he was a 3 sport varsity athlete. He served in the US Army Infantry Division stationed in Fort Carson, Colorado. After leaving the Army he moved to Corning and was a landlord the remainder of his life.

John truly loved being a landlord and was well respected. He had several tenants that rented from him for years, one tenant for 45 years. In his free time, John enjoyed being on the water, he owned several boats and that truly was his happy place.

If he wasn’t on the water you could find him at local car racing tracks. He took his children to Shangri-La Speedway in Owego as often as he could. John was also a NASCAR fan his whole life and he could be found on top of a motorhome or ladder at Watkins Glen International.

He visited several other NASCAR track and if not at the track he’d be watching the race on television. John absolutely adored his grandchildren and loved his children very much. His beloved dog Buddy of 15 years was by his side every day until John’s passing, he so loved his dog.

He is survived by daughter: Debra (Don) Strong of Corning, NY; son Erik (Sarah) Bender of Clermont, Florida; three grandchildren: Kirsta Rhodes and Amber Strong of Corning, NY and Kayleigh Bender of Clermont, Florida; brother: Carl (Tina) Bender of Clearwater, Florida and sister Janet Wescott of Colorado. He was predeceased by his parents. Memorial donations in his memory can be directed to Bath VA, 76 Veterans Ave, Bath, NY 14810 or American Legion Post 154, 235 Scottwood Ave.

, Elmira Heights, NY 14903. At John’s request a private funeral service will be held at Carpenter’s Funeral Home and he will be entombed in St. Mary’s Mausoleum. Kind words or fond memories of John can be offered to his family at www.

If you found any mistakes, or you would like to add/remove to this obituary, please contact us by email: info@obituary.memorial. We never ask money for this.