Rick E. Bender

Rick E. Bender, 65, of Joliett, passed away early Saturday morning, April 19, 2025 at St. Joseph Hospital, Reading.

Rick was born in Pottsville on Thursday, January 21, 1960, a son of Donald Bender, Sr., Joliett, and the late Shirley Lavenburg Bender.

Rick spent his entire life working in the coal industry, where he was greatly respected for his work ethic. He was a provider, a steady hand, and someone who believed in the value of hard work.  Rick was a self employed miner and was the owner of Wheels Coal Company.

Family meant everything to him. They were his entire life. Rick was extremely proud of his grandchildren.

In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by a brother, Edward Bender.

In addition to his father, Rick is survived by his childhood sweetheart, his wife of 45 years, Lori Bixler Bender; his two children, Tanisha Bender and Ricky Bender (Katlyn); his two grandchildren, Breah and Collen Bender; three brothers, Donald Bender Jr. (Jean), Brian Bender (Liz), and Raymond Bender (Becky); two sisters, Cheryl Bixler (Dennis) and Joyce Bender (Bob); numerous nieces, nephews, and many dear friends.

Following Rick's wishes he will be laid to rest privately in the St. Peter's Lutheran Cemetery, Pine Grove.

Donations in Ricks name can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105.

The Dimon Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., Tower City is honored to serve the Bender family.

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