Jeffrey "JJ" James Bender

Jeffrey James (JJ) Bender, 52, passed away on Monday, April 7, 2025. 

JJ was born June 5, 1972, in Bemidji, MN, to J.W. “Bill” and June Bender.  JJ grew up in Bemidji and Red Wing, MN, before making his permanent home with his “second” family at the Eagles Wing Group Home in Bemidji in 1991. 

JJ enjoyed watching television.  His favorite show of all time was “All in the Family.”  Like all the other Benders, JJ also enjoyed music.  His library of favorites was eclectic and included selections from Sesame Street, musicals like “The Music Man” and “Oliver” and even classical selections, like “The Hallelujah Chorus” from Handel’s Messiah. While growing up in the Bender household, JJ was also the occasional star of his brother’s home movies.  Despite the arbitrary physical limitations of his body, JJ’s  parents proudly noted he was the first of the Bender Boys to make it to the sports page of the newspaper in track and field.  JJ loved going for bike rides with his dad.  In the summer, father and son could often be found enjoying ice cream cones along the south shore of Lake Bemidji, with the big green bike, yellow child seat mounted over the rear tire, parked nearby.

In later years, after losing most of his mobility, JJ traded group outings for hanging out with his roommates and staff at his home and “helping” with the chores by giving directions in his own unique style. And JJ always had his constant companion, a plush Pink Panther, nearby.

JJ was preceded in death by his parents and his great-nephew, Asher Bender.  He is survived by his brothers John, Bill, Tom, and Tim (Lisa) Bender; nephews, Nick (Kayla) and Josh Bender; great-niece Harper Bender, and great-nephews Jack and Westen Bender. 

A private family service and interment will be held. Memorials may be directed to Special Olympics Minnesota.

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