Charles Paul Bender Jr.

Charles Paul Bender, Jr., 92, affectionately known as Paul, left this earthly life on September 28, 2026. Born on July 7, 1934, in Wadsworth, Ohio, he was the son of Charles Paul Bender, Sr. and Bernice Ion (Koontz) Bender. In 1937, his family relocated to Wabash, Indiana.

Paul graduated from Wabash High School in 1952 and went on to earn a degree in Business Administration from Indiana University in 1956. During his college breaks, he dated Madonna Petterson, and the two were married on September 30, 1956, at the Wabash Christian Church.

While at Indiana University, Paul participated in ROTC and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in Army Ordnance upon graduation. Entering the service in October 1956, he requested a European assignment and was stationed at the Communications Zone (COMZ) Headquarters in Orleans, France. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Captain in 1964.

Following his military service, Paul followed in his father's footsteps and began a 38-year career with The General Tire and Rubber Company. His work took him to Ohio, Massachusetts, and eventually Salem, New Hampshire, where he spent 30 years managing the Chemical Plastics Division Design Center.

Upon his retirement, Paul, Madonna, and Charles Paul III “CP” moved to Ocala, Florida, where they lived for 26 years. Paul was deeply engaged in his community, as a set designer for the Theatre Group and as a set construction volunteer for the Ocala Civic Theatre. He was also a devoted member of the Ocala West United Methodist Church. Paul and CP spent much time together, which included traveling before CP’s passing. It was a time that brought much joy to Paul.

Paul is survived by his beloved granddaughter, Abbie Marie Findlay of Corby, England; nieces, Paula (Dr. Greg) Garner, Wabash, Susan Spackman, Ashville, North Carolina, and Leslie Frantz, Wabash. He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Madonna; his parents, Charles Sr. and Bernice Ion; his sons, Charles P. "CP" III and Eric C.; his twin daughters, Erica M. and Suzanne M.; and his sister, Nancy Frantz.

His cremains will be laid to rest in the Falls Cemetery Columbarium in Wabash, Indiana, next to those of his wife, Madonna and son, Charles “CP” III in a private service.

The family of Paul Bender has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.