Alfred E. "Al" Bendele's Obituary
Alfred E. "Al" Bendele, 90, of New Haven, passed away on Monday, January 29, 2024, at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne. Born in Ottoville, Ohio, he was the son of the late Norbert and Marcella (Miller) Bendele. He attended St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, New Haven. He retired in 1983 from International Harvester after 27 years. He loved motors and automotive repair, which led him to own and operate Al's Body and Paint in New Haven. He was also a member of Maumee Valley Steam Engine Club and enjoyed tinkering with lawn tractors and woodworking.
He is survived by his children, Helen Bidlack, Frank (Jeanne) Bendele, Mike (Kelly) Bendele, Donna Gilstrap, Pat (Kim) Bendele, Laurie (Larry) Carter, and Vickie Bendele; longtime companion, Mary Royal; siblings, Ruth Gasser, Delores Austin, twins, Jerry (Sharon) Bendele and Jeraldine Ricker, Carl (Fran) Bendele, Roger Bendele, and Dorothy Ricker; 24 grandchildren; and 51 great grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by his wife of 29 years, Sue in 2009; sister, Helen (Alma) Bendele; and two grandchildren.
Funeral service is 10 am Saturday, February 3, 2024, at Life Bridge Church, 12719 Corbin Rd, Fort Wayne with visitation one hour prior. Visitation is 3 to 5 and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, February 2, 2024, at Harper's Community Funeral Home, 740 St. Rd. 930 E., New Haven. Burial in IOOF Cemetery, New Haven. Preferred memorials to Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana. For online condolences please visit www.harperfuneralhome.com
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