Edward William Bender, 82, of Wellington, died Thursday, March 16, 2017 at home surrounded by his family. Born on August 16, 1934, he was the son of the late Edward Gust and Augusta Pauline (nee Bisler) Bender. Edward grew up in the Summit County area and moved to the Wellington and Penfield area in 1976. He proudly served in the National Guard for many years. Edward worked for 34 years with Alltel, starting as an installer and working his way up to becoming a supervisor, he retired in 1993. He enjoyed volunteering his time and helped at the Medina Hospital and was involved with the Penfield Rec Park. Edward was active with his children, helping with the Band Boosters and 4-H groups, and always looked forward to attending the County Fair. Survivors include his children Susan (Dale) Campbell, of Spencer, David (Paula) Bender, of Wooster, Peggy (Paul Wolfe) Bender, of Spencer, and Gary (Christine) Bender, of Grafton; grandchildren Dale, Katie, Josh, Kalie, Shane, David, Cory, Toni, Chloe, Nick, and Brian; great-grandchildren Joshua, Emerson, and Paisley; his brother Bill (Dolores) Bender, of Penfield; and his beloved dog Jake. Edward was preceded in death by his loving wife of 53 years, Marjorie (Purdum) Bender. Friends and family will be received on Monday, March 20, 2017, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at Norton-Eastman Funeral Home, 370 South Main St, Wellington, where services will be held on Tuesday, beginning at 11 a.m. Burial will follow at Penfield Cemetery. Donations in Edward's memory may be directed to Bethany Lutheran Church, 231 East Hamilton St., Wellington. Expressions of sympathy may be shared online at www.norton-eastmanfuneralhome.com.