Joyce Jeanette Pease Bender, age 88, passed away at Mala Strana Rehabilitation and Care Center in New Prague, MN on October 27, 2019 surrounded by her family. She struggled with dementia for over 14 years. Joyce was born in Madison, WI on August 25, 1931 to Lora Ray Pease and Louise Ellen Bolhalter. On August 11, l953 she married her college sweetheart Lt. Willard Anthony “Bink” Bender in Monroe, Wisconsin.

Joyce had deep faith and a caring heart. Going out of her way to help others was central to how she lived her life. Her graciousness will be remembered by everyone she touched. She put her heart and soul into everything she did. 

Joyce was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bink, and her dear sister, Lorna Pease Viney. She is survived by her children, Lora Louise Lambert, Michael Anthony (Donna) Bender, Mary Jane Bender, and grandchildren, Brooks Lambert (Angi), Brady Lambert, Joelle Bender, Alyssa Tripi (Lewis), Eric Bender and great grandchildren, Luke Tripi and Clayton Lambert.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, October 31, 2019 at 11:30 AM at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in New Prague, MN. Visitation at church from 10 – 11:30. Burial at St. Wenceslaus Cemetery. bruzekfuneralhome.com

Those wishing to express sympathy may consider a donation in Joyce’s honor to the MN Alzheimer’s Association http://alz.org/mnnd/donate.