Doraine E. Bender, 98, formerly of Bethalto, passed away 5:49 am, Friday, August 9, 2019 at Carlyle Heathcare Center.
Born in Wood River on December 9, 1920, she was the daughter of August Lewis Christopher and Verna Nancy (Toberman) Wuestenfeld.
She had worked 10 years for McDonalds Corporate Office; was a member of M.A.D.D., Compassionate Friends, Ladies Aid Society and The Stephen Ministry.
On August 10, 1940 in Wood River, she married Elmer F. Bender. He died November 25, 1995.
Surviving are a daughter, June (Jim) Evilsizer of Carlyle; grandchildren, Jim Evilsizer, Jill Gueterslon, Dina Hancock, Jenna Langendorf; seven great grandchildren; and six great-great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son, Fred Bender; daughter, Mary Jean Bender; grandson, Paul Bender; and sister, Margie Friedline.
Visitation will be from 2-5 pm, Sunday, August 18 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Wood River, where services will be conducted at 10 am, Monday. Pastor David Schultz will officiate.
Burial will follow in Upper Alton Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to St. Paul Lutheran Church, where she had been a lifetime member, played in the hand-bell choir and taught Sunday School.
Marks Mortuary in Wood River is in charge of arrangements.
