Diana "Dede" Bender

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Diana "Dede" Bender, who left this world on May 7, 2026. Dede, as she was affectionately known, was a beacon of love, warmth, and kindness, and she departed this life peacefully at home, surrounded by those she cherished. Born on November 16, 1957, in the quaint town of Alabaster, Michigan, Dede was the beloved daughter of Samuel and Iva Jean Stuble. She was raised alongside her siblings Sandra, Todd, and Julie. Her parents and sister Sandra, as well as her brother-in-laws Roger Haas and Alan Butts and son-in-law Jeffrey VanOchten, predeceased her and with their absence left a void that she filled with cherished memories and stories. Dede was a proud graduate of Standish Sterling High School, Class of 1975. She went on to further her education at Great Lakes Junior College, where she graduated as a legal assistant, a profession she excelled in with grace and precision. For 30 years, she dedicated her career to assisting at Patrick Winter Attorney PLC, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues and clients alike. After retiring, her commitment to service found a new path as she took on the role of secretary at Faith Lutheran Church, where she was an active and devout member. Dede was a woman of many passions. An avid lover of the outdoors, she found peace and joy in swimming and kayaking in the lakes that surrounded her. She was an avid reader and lover of music and movies, often sharing her favorites with friends and family. Her home was a sanctuary of love, where she spent countless joyful moments with her family and her cherished Faith Lutheran family. Known for her generous spirit, kindness, and a delightful sense of humor spiced with sarcasm, Dede was a friend to all. She had a special place in her heart for children and animals, and her home was always open to those in need of comfort and laughter. Dede leaves behind her devoted husband, Dennis Bender, with whom she shared a life filled with love and laughter. She is survived by her beloved children, Desiree VanOchten and Brittany Bender(Joshua Bell). Her grandchildren, Zoe (Matthew) Ashby, Riley Bender, and Rhianna Gonzalez, and her great-grandchild, Samson Ashby, will forever hold her in their hearts. She also leaves her siblings, Todd (Elsa) Stuble and Julie Butts, who will miss her dearly. A celebration of Dede's life will be held on May 11, 2026, at Faith Lutheran Church, located at 5315 Henderson Lake Rd, Prescott, MI 48756. The family invites all who knew her to join in honoring her memory and the beautiful life she lived. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made for expenses, a gesture that would truly honor Dede's generous spirit. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to McLaren ICU nurses Cassie, Colleen, and Dana, whose exceptional care and compassion brought laughter and comfort to Dede in her final days. Special thanks also to McLaren Hospice for ensuring her last days were spent in the comfort of her home. Dede's legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering faith will forever remain in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. As we say goodbye, we take comfort in the knowledge that she is now embraced by the eternal peace she so richly deserves.