Obituaries
Sharon H. Bender, 74
December 19, 2021
Sharon Helbert Bender, 74, of Salunga, PA passed away at home peacefully on Sunday, December 19, 2021 surrounded by her loving family after a 3-year battle with cancer. Born in Ashland, OH she was the daughter of the late Marguerite (Markley) and Charles Helbert.
Sharon graduated from the Hillsdale High School in Ashland County, OH in 1965 and from Findlay College, Findlay, OH in 1969. She retired from teaching kindergarten in the Penn Manor School District in 2009. After retirement she was the head cook for the senior citizen ministry at the Church of God of Landisville, where she was a member. She enjoyed reading, puzzles, quilting, gardening, camping, antique shopping and traveling to Ohio to visit family.
Sharon is survived by her husband Gary, of 52 years; daughters: Wendy Brister (Brian) of Wrightsville, PA and Susan Bender (Brian) of Newark, DE; granddaughter Emma Brister; siblings: Laura Luhring (Karl) of West Salem, OH, Benton Helbert (Jeanie) of Wooster, OH, Kathryn Heerkens (Don) of Cape Vincent, NY, Rebecca Petersen (Gary) of Huron, OH, and Phillip Helbert of Jeromesville, OH, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Healing Journey Foundation c\o Lancaster Cancer Center, 703 Lampeter Rd., Lancaster, PA 17602.
No Celebration of Life services will be held at this time due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A graveside service will be at the discretion of the family at Landisville Mennonite Cemetery.
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Condolences to the Family
January 02, 2022
I am saddened to hear of the passing of my high school friebd and classmate. It sounds like she had a fulfilling life with lots of family and friends, and her work as a teacher. We lost touch with each other over the years as time goes on. My prayers are with your family at this time of sorrow
Susan Goard
Upper Arlington, Ohio
43221
December 28, 2021
I’m saddened to hear about her passing. Mrs. Bender was my kindergarten teacher at Hambright Elementary in the late 90’s, early 00’s. I absolutely adored her. My thoughts are with her family during this difficult time.
Kayla Fink
December 23, 2021
Our condolences to the entire family. Your mother sounded like an amazing mother, teacher and individual. We send you blessings and prayers. May the wonderful memories you shared help comfort you. the Murphy Lab Pathology staff
Leslie Brennan
December 23, 2021
I am so very sorry for your loss. Mrs. Bender was my Kindergarten teacher at Hambright Elementary in the 1989/1990 school year. I have such wonderful memories of her and I couldn’t have asked for a better teacher for my introduction to school and to ignite my love of learning. I hope you can find comfort in knowing that her kindness & legacy will go on in the hearts of all of her students and everyone’s lives she touched.
Christa (Kautz) Greene
December 23, 2021
I was a classmate of Sharon and she was just nice to everyone. I missed seeing since we don’t have reunions . I know she will be missed.
Ruth Ann Jolliff
December 22, 2021
I have many good memories from teaching with Sharon. She was a loyal friend and we laughed a lot. I will miss her! May you all find comfort and peace in your memories.
Marilyn Hite
December 22, 2021
To Wendy, my heartfelt condolences for the loss of your dear mother. It’s my hope that your many happy memories bring you peace at this most difficult time. You’ll be on my mind so much. With love ❤️
Gregg Tepper
December 22, 2021
I am saddened to find out about her passing. She was my kindergarten teacher 33 years ago, yet I still thought of her though out the years. Just about a month ago I was remembering how she made leprechaun footprints around Saint Patrick’s day to make the class believe there was one that was running around the school. She was a wonderful teacher. My condolences to you her family and friends.
Jason Novack
December 22, 2021
Our deepest sympathy on the loss of your wife and mother. We will miss her. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Steve and Pat Crognale
December 22, 2021
Gary and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Sharon was a wonderful lady and I know you will miss her dearly. Cherish your memories.
Debbie Taylor Yoder