Donald H. Bender, 73 of Urbana, left our world, as we know it, November 7th, on a beautiful Saturday afternoon, losing his 9-month battle with cancer, in his home surrounded by family and friends.

Don was born September 6th, 1936 in Berwin, IL, the 4th child of Margaret A. and Francis H. Bender. He married Dora J. Burwell in 1955, and is survived by a daughter, Lori J. Bender (Denny) of Allerton and a son, Thomas D. Bender (Lisa) of Urbana and 6 beautiful grandchildren, Shelby, Haley and Ashton Castongue; Ryan, Chelsea and Chloe Bender. He is also survived by 1 brother, Russell (Barb) Bender of Urbana. His parents, a brother, Stan Bender and a sister, Mariann Ellison, preceded him in death.

After the untimely passing of Don's father, the family moved to Urbana where he attended Thornburn Jr. and Urbana High School. He worked at Champaign Mattress Factory from 1952 until 1967. During this time he also served 4 years in the Army National Guard Reserves and was a University of Illinois Firefighter from 1958 until 1972. Don had a strong passion for real estate, which flourished in the 1960's while he pursued and obtained his realtor license. The pursuit and obtainment of his license led him into constructing and owning several rental properties. In 1969 he and his wife, Dora, founded Bender Mattress Factory from where he retired in 1993. After retirement, Don spent winters with many wonderful friends at the Red Coconut Resort in Ft. Myers Beach, FL.

In accordance with Don's wishes, there will be no visitation. A Memorial Open House in Don's Honor will be held Saturday, Nov 14th from 1 to 4 p.m. for friends and family in his home at 2103 Burwell St., Urbana. A private graveside service will be held at a later date in Bronzewood Cemetery at Oakbrook, IL. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Carle Cancer Center or the American Cancer Society.