After a courageous battle with cancer, Jim passed away at Grand River Hospital on Friday, August 17, 2018 at the age 69. Born September 8th, 1948 and raised on a dairy farm by his parents Chris and Ada Bender, Jim was surrounded by a large and loving family. Jim owned a successful masonry company for 20+ years and transitioned to a new career at the age of 43. Jim became an award winning long-haul truck driver for 23 years with Schneider National. Beloved husband to Viola (Bast), loving father to Tracy (Dwight) and proud poppa to Joshua and Abigail. Dear brother to Lyle (Sheri), Ernie (Brenda), Leon (Heidi), Dean (Maxine), Bertha Moore (Bruce), Darlene Mills (Dave) and Sheila Mayerhofer (Robert). Jim will be Sadly missed by his wonderful extended family. Friends and relatives are invited for visitation from 2-4 and 7-9 P.M. Tuesday August 21, 2018 at the GRAHAM A. GIDDY FUNERAL HOME AND CHAPEL, 617 King St., N., Waterloo. (across from Home Depot). A funeral service will be held at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 2925 Lobsinger Line, Heidelberg on Wednesday Aug 22, 2018 at 11:00 A.M. With Pastor Olaf Poulsen officiating at the service. Interment St. Peter’s Lutheran Cemetery Heidelberg. As expressions of sympathy donations to Grand River Hospital Cancer Centre or St. Peter’s Lutheran Church would be appreciated by the family.
