William F. Bender Jr.

William "Bill" F. Bender, 84, formally of Lancaster was called home by the Lord on Sunday March 8, 2026. Bill was a devoted son, husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and proud veteran.

Born in Philadelphia, he was the son of the late William F. Bender. He grew up in Philadelphia and met the love of his life, Lucy Rita Mariani Bender, in 1963. The two were married in August of 1964 and began a lifelong love story together that would span more than 62 years. Bill and Lucy added to their family in 1971 when they welcomed their son, Christopher Ryan Bender.

Bill was in the United States Army and served in Vietnam in total served 22 years earning a bronze star and achieving the rank of Sergeant First Class at retirement.  He then went on to work for 20 years at the New Cumberland Army Depot before retiring.

Bill provided for his family without question and stood firmly by his values. Strong-willed and determined, he was known as a bullheaded German man with a heart of gold. Bill was kind, giving, honest, and dependable. He took responsibility for his actions, protected and supported those around him, and helped others without ego.

Outside of work and family life, Bill enjoyed playing golf, watching action movies, riding motorcycles, and spending time with the people he loved most. He was a member of the men's golf league at Fairview Golf Course in Quentin, Pennsylvania.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife Lucy Rita (Mariani) Bender; his son, Christopher Ryan Bender and his wife, Kelli; grandchildren, Jordan Phillips (Dalton) Alex Lozano and his great grandchildren Cleo and Vera along with godchild Linda Mochler (John). He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Frances Taylor (Ken); nieces Laura Kaiser (Kevin), Donna Witmer (Tim), nephews Matthew Taylor (Kim) and Michael Taylor (Jackie); also, nieces Lisa Chapman (Bill), and Paula Seaner (Joe); and his dog Rusty.

He was preceded in death by his niece, Gina Keeley; his sister-in-law, Rosalie (Dave); and his beloved dog, Nick.

A memorial service will take place Thursday March 26, 2026, at Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home, 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz PA at 11am. Guests are invited to a time of greeting from 10 to 11. Bill will be laid to rest at Indiantown Gap following service.