Obituary
Barbara Ann Bender, 66, of Fort Myers, FL, passed away on November 2, 2023. She was born on June 16, 1957. Barbara was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and friend. Barbara is survived by her husband Dennis Bender, her brother Daniel Giles, sons Adam Bender, Justin Bender, Dennis “DJ” Bender, and Dakota “Cody” O’Neill, daughters Kimberly Forester, Calista Rowley, and Monique O’Neill, and her grandchildren Dominic Zuchegno, Evelyn Forester, Owen Forester, Ian Forester, Benjamin Forester, Kayli Bender, Dennis “Lil D” Bender, Alyssa Bender, Brooke Riley O’Neill, and Gage Beckwith. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Arline Giles and her Father-in-law Howard Bender and Mother-in-law Alice Bender.
In addition to caring for her family, Barbara spent her career working for the transportation department of the Collier County School System in Fort Myers, FL. She took great pride in a job well done and cared deeply about ensuring the safety of the bus drivers and children she worked with. Barbara had a passion for playing pool with her husband and friends, and this hobby took the couple on many fun vacations over the years. She was also known for her cooking skills and enjoyed hosting family meals and gatherings. As a young adult Barbara served in the Air Force, where she made valuable contributions to the military community and developed a strong sense of duty and determination. In recent years she and her husband Dennis enjoyed easing into retirement, taking short trips in their RV and spending more time together and with family.
Barbara’s unexpected passing brings profound grief to many, but the innumerable memories shared are a comfort.
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