LaVern "Bud" Bender

LaVern “Bud” Joseph Bender passed away February 27, 2010 in McCook, with his family at his beside while celebrating his 90th birthday.

He was born on February 26, 1920, in Humphrey, Nebraska to Simon and Sabina (Abler) Bender. He was the fifth oldest child of ten.

Following his graduation from St. Francis High School, Humphrey, Bud farmed and produced cattle in his hometown area. He served as past Platte County Feeders and Association president. Together with his son, Robert, he formed Bender Farms in Platte County. He was also an owner of Klub 81, a popular restaurant in Humphrey. He continued to farm into his eighties after which he retired to McCook, Nebraska in 2004. An avid Husker fan, one of his many achievements included the education of all four of his children with degrees from the University of Nebraska. He also enjoyed attending St. Francis Flyers, Columbus Scotus, Lakeview Vikings, and McCook Bison events, and encouraging his children and grandchildren in sporting activities.

Mr. Bender was an outstanding bowler and golfer. He was a past state-bowling champion on the Knights of Columbus team from Humphrey. Numerous trophies and golfing honors impressed his family culminating with a hole-in-one at age eighty. He continued to enjoy golfing until his mid eighties.

He was a life long member of St. Francis Catholic Church in Humphrey and a member of the Knights of Columbus.

Bud left a legacy rich with his love of sports, education, politics and life. His sharp wit entertained his friends and family. All who had the pleasure of knowing him will miss him.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Simon and Sabina Bender; brothers, Eugene, Mark, Walter, Melvin and Carroll; sisters, Mildred and Eileen; one son, Ronald; former wife, Margaret; and son-in-law, Donald Snellings.

Survivors include his daughters, Jane Snellings of Phoenix, Arizona and Karen (Dr. Chris) Nix of McCook; sons, Robert (Stacie) Bender of Bakersfield, California and Daniel (Erlinda) Bender of Richmond, Texas. He was blessed with ten grandchildren and one great-grandchild. His sister Germaine Liebig of Platte Center and brother, David Bender of Humphrey, also survives him.

Funeral services were at St. Francis Church, 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 2, 2010.

Duesman Funeral Chapel of Humphrey was in charge of the arrangements.