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118 Entries
Thomas Aiello
December 25, 2024
I never met frank but I always admired him very talented and passionate artist. His passing made me very SAD
Cynthia Gonzalez
November 26, 2024
I still miss visiting his studio. Thinking of him. Always will.
July 12, 2024
An amazing man. An amazing talent.
Mary Steed
June 12, 2024
Just learned about Frank and he touched my heart, a good man who helped others devoted to his family and set a good example in life. My prayer is for his daughter, has to be proud of her dad, May God bless her.
Jackie Rogers
January 22, 2023
Chelsea Bratcher
November 7, 2018
Frank will be remembered for his talent which he used to help others in a time of need. Im amazed his artistic ability ,and it is inspiring to me personally to achieve success as he did.
MaryAnn Aquilino
February 9, 2018
My heartfelt thanks for all you did to help so many others, especially the victims and their loved ones. Without you and your amazing gifts, they'd still be restless spirits, both those looking for their robbed identities, and their loved ones left not knowing where they were. You will always be remembered for what you've done and who you were. You were one of a kind, whose exact like we'll never see again. I was saddened to hear not only that such important gifts as yours were taken from the many faceless who still need them, but also that such a wonderful, unique person, one who so obviously loved his family, his life, and his work, was taken away from all that. While you're gone way too soon, we're grateful our world had you for the time it did. I hope you and Jan are together and at peace, and my condolences to Vanessa and Lisa. May they always feel both of you watching over them.
Albert Di Bella
January 8, 2018
Thank You Frank for your willingness to give of yourself to simply help others, .......
S. G.
March 29, 2014
I have just read Ted Botha's "Girl with The Crooked Nose" and feel privileged to have gained some insight of an extraordinary man and his wife. May they rest in peace, and Thank you for lives well-lived.
Debbie Bender Davis
February 17, 2014
I didn't know Frank , but heard of his amazing talent from a distant relative a few days ago. In search of my ancestors I find her and she shared Franks story with me. Not only was I fascinated with his work but learned my father and he shared the same name. I don't know if there is a connection but I felt compelled to honor such a special man.. Thank you Frank for helping so many find peace. Your talent will live on in others and because of you the peace that comes from your Legacy will never end.. Rest with God
Stephanie bichara
August 26, 2012
Frank was a dear friend of mine.... A long time ago.... His work was amazing, but I most remember him for the awesome remote control helicopter, he gifted me, that got my butt thrown off my horse! Darn you Frank.... You were one of a kind... and I would bit the dust a million more time for you.... With love, Stephanie Bichara... PS: I cannoot remember you lovely lady friend's name but her personlity and spirit remains alive in my memory, as well as yours!
October 31, 2011
I saw several of his works featured on America's Most wanted. Truly a man with great talents. One day we will be able to say these words, "Death is swallowed up forever. Death, where is your victory? Death, where is your sting?”
joanna jacobson
September 24, 2011
What a GREAT MAN!!! We are left with a huge void. I am so sorry... He helped start the Vidocq Society which re-opens cold murder cases and tries to solve them.
HUGE LOSS to all of us ... JJ
Beth
September 17, 2011
This man was the pioneer in forensic sculpture and lead the way for a amazing new way for those who lost their voice and their identity along with their skin until all that was left was bones. Thank you for your exquisite talent you will be missed by all those who were supposed to stay missing and you found with your talent.
Yvette Hines
August 30, 2011
Frank Bender had a very special gift. He will be missed.
Daniele
August 27, 2011
Rest in peace. There will never be another.
Paula Gordon
August 26, 2011
To the family of Frank Bender: May God grant you peace and comfort in the passing of your loved one. I was so fortunate to meet Mr. Bender through the Monroe County Coroner's Office when he came to speak at the PA Coroner's Convention in Stroudsburg, and, again, in Hershey, PA when he spoke to the PA State Police. After that, whenever I saw an article, etc., about him, I absorbed each and every word. His talent was a Gift from God and was nothing short of a miracle. I am so saddened by his death but know that Jesus will hold him in his Everlasting Arms until we all meet again.
Vanessa Bender
August 22, 2011
Dear Frank (aka Dad),
You were one of a kind. Missing you everyday.
Love,
Vanessa
Tami Bramblett
August 19, 2011
Thank you for sharing your art with those victimized people and empowering the lost.
David Simpson
August 17, 2011
First of all , I am praying for the repose of your soul Frank, I was fortunate to be friends with you for many years and to be there for you when you needed support during your wife's illness , miraculous recovery and subsequent relapse. I am relieved that your sufferings are over and you are back with your beloved wife Jan. There are not enough words to express how much I will miss our coffees together and talking about trains and perfect scale models of antique trolleys and such and even working on them together. I'd like to take this opportunity to let people know how "gifted" you truly were. How you opened yourself up to the metaphysical world to help the living and to quiet the restless spirits of senseless violence and help bring justice to them. Most don't know the price it exacted on you as you rarely discussed that part. How doing this unique service held little reward for you and the hard times you humbly weathered for the benefit of others. You were a miracle and a character and a brilliant artist whose time here was too short. I know you are looking and watching out for those you left behind that loved you and cared for you and were grateful to you. Rest in peace , my old friend. My condolences to Vanessa and Lisa, his assistant Joan and all who knew and loved him.
David Simpson
Glenna McCue
August 14, 2011
I feel blessed that I met Frank. He was truly an extraordinary character. Rest in peace, friend.
August 12, 2011
Rest in Peace, my friend. Mr. Fleisher "God Bless" dear heart. His inspiration and courage motivates my journey. Bill Brothers Seattle
Lisa Burns
August 8, 2011
My sympathies go out to Mr. Bender's family and friends. I didn't know Mr. Bender, but I followed his career and was fascinated by his talent and skill. I am proud that he was from my hometown of Philly. There was no one like him, and I'm sure that the worlds of forensics and law enforcement will not be the same without him.
Debra Tangi
August 8, 2011
Frank's passing is truly a great loss to everyone. My heart and prayers are with you all at this time, I have truly been blessed to have know Frank, and Janice, their courage and spirit gives me inspiration, they will always be in my thoughts and in my heart. I will keep you all in my thoughts and heart as well. Sincerely and with great sorrow, Deb Tangi
milene tannenbaum
August 8, 2011
i was just telling a coworker over a week ago that i really wanted2meet you. i brought in the people magazine that featured an article on your last chance case. very, very heartbroken that you will no longer be with us Frank. Helpi bring the faces back & cowards to justice ( john walsh ) rest in peace
August 6, 2011
My late husband(B.McDougall)shared schooldays friendship with Frank and also with Richie and Dennis. Years later had the pleasure of meeting his daughters, beautiful wife Janice and also a home visit to his mother. My few contacts with Frank before and after Bob's death left me sensing that he was "quirky" and that also he had an enormous respect, kind and gentle side.He balanced all facets of his inner self with his openess,emotional availability and humor. I think he had profound honesty in all meanings of the word. Condolences to his family, and we are grateful for his life. S.Smith(formerly of Phila.)
Clark Mills
August 6, 2011
Frank brought to light the spirit of those who could not speak, and became an inspiration to all those who had the privilege of knowing him. A very human, creative talent who will be missed.
A Cox
August 3, 2011
Mr. Bender, you are an inspiration to me... how wonderful to have such a talented and gifted spirit that you shared with so many.
August 2, 2011
a talent gone now, but a legacy that will last for generations of talent that will emulate his talent and drive to be helpful.... and do the right thing. janis dinicola erie,pa
Max Ellison
August 2, 2011
Your passing has left a hole in the forensic community that your work changed forever.
You had the imagination and skill to help so many people.
You will be missed.
August 2, 2011
This man truly had a gift from God. He gave many families peace of mind and the talent he had was truly a wonder. The world lost a very talented human being and a great gift. God Bless him and his family.
Ruth Leombruni
August 2, 2011
Thank you for all your work, you were an angel on earth and now in heaven
Frances D'Auria
August 2, 2011
My condolence to Mr. Bender's family.
He will be forever remembered for his work and helping so many families in his lifetime.
Tina Davis
August 2, 2011
Thank you Frank for bringing peace to my family. You brought closure to so many families and you brought to life those that they have lost, it is a rare and precious gift that you shared with the world - thank you for everything. Godspeed, your wings are waiting.
milene tannenbaum
August 1, 2011
You will be missed by sooooo many people. I believe in the (rainbow bridge) for humans. Not just animals. Your with your wife & loved ones. Deeply going to miss you
Miss CC
August 1, 2011
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998
Frank Davis
August 1, 2011
thanks Frank for finding my sister Jaqueline Gough, the closure you bought to my mother was priceless. say hello to her in heaven god bless you and your family.
frankie dee from Philly
Brenda Myers
August 1, 2011
Thank you Mr. Frank Bender for using your God given talents to help us all.
May you Rest In Peace.
Karen and Gene Pettinelli
August 1, 2011
Frank was most interesting. He helped those who needed it the most.
S HYKES
August 1, 2011
MY DEEPEST SYMPATHYS TO ALL. WHAT A BRILLIANT MIND!!! R.I.P. SIR
Donna Borrell
August 1, 2011
you spoke for the dead when they had no one... bless your heart Frank Bender
August 1, 2011
So sad to lose someone who has done so much good!! Bless you and all you held dear.
C P
August 1, 2011
I would like to share my deepest sympathy with your family.Acts.25:15
Robin Yarbrough
August 1, 2011
Rest in Peace Mr. Bender. I loved your work and wish I could have studied under you. You had an incredible talent for bringing closure to many!!!
SD
August 1, 2011
Mr. Bender was one of those people that we wish never die. Its talent is hard to come about and even more rare to be as good as he was. We rejoice though for the time spent and appreciate him sharing what he did best in a way to help families find some peace and solace. The hope in God's word is that one day he will be resurrected to a life on earth John 28:29 confirms that hope. What a delight it will be to have him back again.
August 1, 2011
My condolences to you and your family Sara. He was a real innovator and great artist. Regards, Cindy
Sandra Shelby
August 1, 2011
What a great man. He will live on in his sculptures and his work for victims.
Norma Meyer-Coan
July 31, 2011
Thank you Mr. Bender for fighting for the voiceless victims of horrendous crimes. Your giving of your time and talent in order to identify the John and Jane Does and bring justice for the victims and closure for their loved ones was one of the most generous and loving acts that anyone could ever give.
Deepest sympathy to your family
kay waters
July 31, 2011
my condolences to his family....i have never met frank bender...but have seen him on tv many times....i have always been mesmerized by his talents...he will be missed...
July 31, 2011
You will find great rewards in heaven.....you will get the chance to see the faces of the people you helped identify. You will never be forgotten by those of us who understand how important what you did was for the unidentified. You were an inspiration.
July 31, 2011
May God comfort you as you cope with your loss.
July 31, 2011
this very gifted man has given more to society than he even knew he has done. bless his life and his family thank you
July 31, 2011
He did a great work to assist the authorities. He will be missed.
Patricia Heinsinger-Lattanzio
July 31, 2011
As a young college student many years ago, I had the privilege to meet Mr. Bender and inquire about his forensic work. I found a devoted, passionate, and selfless man whose heart gave to the world, but more importantly, to those who grieved. Frank brought humanity where it was needed the most. Thank you, Frank Bender, for all that you have given of yourself. My condolences, as well, to the loved ones of Mr. Bender.
Linda Glasgow
July 31, 2011
Frank was a wonderful man who was very kind and generous. Through Frank's artistic talents, he helped identify many victims of crime, and brought closier to their families. He will always be remembered by his many friends and family, and those he helped. May he enjoy eternal peace with his beloved wife Jan, and may he rest in peace with the Lord.
David B. Hicks, Sr.
July 31, 2011
Mr. Bender was a credit to his trade. The world has lost a very valuable and irreplaceable asset in crime detection. It takes someone who loves mankind to devote the time involved in doing what he did. He will be truly missed. Thank you, Mr. Bender.
Joan Nicholson
July 31, 2011
A great talent who was not afraid to use it for the common good. Thanks, Frank, you were an inspiration.
roger king
July 31, 2011
good,better,best never let it rest until your good is better and your better is best. frank you were the best.rest in peace knowing that you will never be forgotten. roger eugene king retired homicide prosecutor phila.pa
Lifelong friends
Cheryl CocoLewis
July 31, 2011
I was blessed to be lifelong friends with Janice, and through her, with Frank too. What an awesome combination they were -- beautiful inside and out, caring, loving, giving, compassionate, passionate, talented, devoted, fun and funny, they both had a great sense of humor, their smiles could light up more than a lightning strike, they helped everyone. Blessed be your names.
Lisa Lee Harp Waugh
July 31, 2011
May most heartfelt prayers for all those that he touched in his life.
Frank Strother
July 31, 2011
He put his talent to excellent use and helped law enforcement in apprehending criminals like John List. I was impressed by his willingness to help in the capture of these fugitives with his gifted hands and mind. Many thanks to him and may GOD help his family with their grief at his loss.
July 31, 2011
In Isa 33:24, no resident will say I am sick, is what we have in store for us. Sorry for the loss
Sherrie Geeting
July 30, 2011
I only knew Mr. Bender through his work, and am so grateful for his unique, unsurpassed talents and the comfort he was able to bring to so many. I imagine you were welcomed with opened arms by the many people you identified, by those whose families were comforted by your work, and by your wife. Thank you for demonstrating a life well-lived.
M TERRY
July 30, 2011
GOD BLESS YOU MR BENDER. What a GOD given talent this great had. RIP MR BENDER. You will be greartly missed
July 30, 2011
I did not know Frank personally, but knew of his work. He was a phenomenal and gifted forensic artist. I pray that his spirit energy guides us all in our forensic work. He is onward to a better place...
LORI FARRAR
July 30, 2011
TO HAVE THE TALENT AND COURAGE TO CHANGE PEOPLES LIVES, IS SPECIAL, BUT TO DO WHAT MR BENDER DID IS EXCEPTIONAL. MAY HE REST IN PEACE WITH HIS WIFE, IN THE GOOD LORD'S HOUSE WITH THE ANGELS TAKING MR FRANK BENDER UNDER THE ANGEL'S WINGS. GOD BLESS THIS FAMILY FROM NOW UNTIL FOREVER. MAY GOD GUIDE THE BENDER FAMILY THRU THIS TOUGH TIME OF PAIN, AND MAY THE LORD, TAKE CARE OF THE BENDER'S INTO THE FUTURE. MAY THE SADNESS SINK LOWER THAN THE HAPPINESS. GOD BLESS THIS FAMILY AT THIS THEIR TIME OF SORROW. MAY THE HAPPINESS OUTWEIGH THE SADNESS, AND MAY THE MEMORIES KEEP THIS FAMILY HAPPY. PLEASE DEAR GOD, KEEP THIS FAMILY UNDER YOUR WINGS OF SILVER AND GOLD, PLEASE DEAR GOD PROTECT THEM FROM HARM AND KEEP THEIR SADNESS AWAY FROM THIS FAMILY. MR BENDER WAS THE BEST OF THE BEST IN HIS FIELD OF EXPERTISE, HE HELPED THOSE THAT WERE GRIEVING FOR THEIR FAMILY MEMBERS WITH THE FINDING OF THE LOST SOULS. NOW THEIR RESTING IN PEACE WITH OUR LORD. THE VICTIMS THAT WERE LOST ARE NOW FOUND. PLEASE LORD, LOVE THESE PEOPLE WITH ALL POSSIBLE.
Paula Rogers
July 30, 2011
So glad to get to know you in the last year of your life - what a gift. I will always remember you. Thank you so much for all the good you've done, and for the beautiful artwork you've left us. I imagine all the people you've helped identify over the years welcomed you with open arms in thanks to the relief you gave their families. Rest in peace, my friend.
Jamie Toomer-Reichert
July 30, 2011
A man with a god giving talents. Your art has touched many and also helped a lot of grieving families. I thank you
Lisa Brawner
July 30, 2011
My father, Frank Bender was a wonderful, loving and caring person. His work brought him much happiness and his dedication brought him much success. His unique qualities made him who he was and why he was known all of the world. I will miss my dad so much but I am grateful for all the people he touched in his life by his work and compassion. Thank you all for your wonderful words and praise for a great man and father. I love and miss you very much.
Veronica (Ronie) (Strahle) Grundman
July 30, 2011
I first met Frank when we were teenagers in North Philly. Even though I didn't have contact with Frank for many years it seemed as if he was always present in some way. His unbelievable talent in forensic reconstruction kept him in the public eye and allowed me to see an old friend from time to time. Frank was one of a kind! God Bless you Frank. Deepest sympathy to your family and friends.
Laura Lindgren
July 30, 2011
It was a privilege to know Frank for nearly 20 years, and I was fortunate to see him again last March-thanks, Vanessa, for snapping a photo of us together at the Mütter event. Frank's talents in forensics were matched by a deep understanding of humanity and true fearlessness. He will be greatly missed by many. My heart goes out to his family and wide circle of friends.
JUANA LANDERS
July 30, 2011
HE IS REALLY GOING TO BE MISSES.HE WAS ONE AWESOME MAN!!!RIP,,MR.BENDER,,,,JUANA KLANDERS.GEORGIA
AG
July 30, 2011
Without your help in the John List case, he probably would have never been caught and convicted. Thanks for your help to the Law Enforcement around this country.
Cyndi
July 30, 2011
The world has lost...the afterlife has gained...bon voyage Mr. Bender and thanks for sharing your time, skill and art.
Rich Hettich
July 30, 2011
I have known Frank since we were young teenagers growing up in North Philly.
Frank will be truly missed by a countless number of friends and associates. His work in forensic reconstruction is legendary and his unforgettable laugh, smile, stare and sense of humor will be in my heart and mind forever. He will be remembered and missed by all that ever knew him.
Good bye my friend, you are now pain free and at piece.
Richie
July 30, 2011
You will be missed, our lose is Heaven's gain. My prayers go out to his family. I have a lot of good memories of Frank and his late wife as a child growing up with their daughters. Frank was truely one of a kind-Cheryl(conway SC)
Judy Mahoney
July 30, 2011
Mr. Bender you were a genius - you found closure for so many families missing their loved ones. I know there is a special place in heaven for you.
Victoria&Andrew
July 30, 2011
Thoughts&Prayers to
Frank Bender Our sentiments
For not too many can do what he done
Helping those families and friends of others never found in care of the closure of those victims of the missing
Rest in peace into a mystical Journey~
Barb
July 30, 2011
My sincere sympathy and prayers to Mr. Bender's family and friends.
His talent allowed him to be a force against the evil of the world. God bless you and your dear wife, Mr. Bender. Thank you for all of the good things you did.
July 30, 2011
The wonderful work he has done will be forever appreciated by the families of the deceased. I will never forget that John List case and how quickly he was caught after the viewing on "America's Most Wanted"..that was indeed incredible how he knew exactly what the man would look like all those decades later.
Jane Billingham
July 30, 2011
a legend in the field of forensic art.What a sad, sad loss
Suzanne Baldon
July 30, 2011
Sympathies and Blessings! We appreciate you, Frank Bender!
July 30, 2011
My condolences to the Bender Family. Mr. Bender made a unique contribution to our society. I believe was God driven to bring comfort to those families affected by their loss. God bless Mr. Fender as he made his way into heaven.
Tammy Ballantyne
July 30, 2011
Your God given talent will be missed. Thanks for all the help that you gave to victims that were unable to help themselves.
louise wisinski
July 30, 2011
God bless you for all you did; rest in peace.
July 30, 2011
Such talent! Hopefully his spirit will guild others to do what he could do to a lost idenity.
Wendi Brierley
July 30, 2011
I always looked forward to seeing Mr. Bender's forensic sculptures featured on America's Most Wanted. He was so focused on his work, as if nothing would stop him from bringing the killer to justice by modelling the victim's face to life. I hate seeing talent go to waste or never used. Mr. Bender had the talent of a hundred men. He used his skill, consumed it, and wore it out until he was no longer able to work. May God hold you and your family in the palm of His hand.
Peter Henderson
July 30, 2011
God bless you Mr. Bender. I have no doubt you were greeted by many in heaven. Now you know all their names
Jennifer L.
July 30, 2011
Your work will live on, Frank, not only in the pieces you made through the past several decades, but also by your dedication to your craft, thereby inspiring other forensic artists. Computers are good, but they cannot feel, as artists can with their hearts, the harmony of parts. Peace to you, and best wishes to your family -
Cynthia Kaley
July 30, 2011
A true talent that was used to capture the guilty and find the lost and forgotten. You will be missed
July 30, 2011
I'm sorry for the world's loss.
I worked with Frank when I was a copywriter at McKinney (many moons ago). He was one of our favorite photographers . . . talented, smart, polite, creative, and a true gentleman.
Godspeed Frank. You were an angel on Earth and will be embraced by the angels in Heaven.
Tricia, Philadelphia
Ann Hales
July 30, 2011
We have truly lost a good and talented Man.Thank you Mr.Bender for all you have done for our country.May You Rest In Peace.God Bless Your Family And Friends
July 30, 2011
Frank we will keep the candle burning till they all come home
Anonymous
July 30, 2011
Thank you Mr. Bender
Ellen Leach
July 29, 2011
Frank was a great man. I had spoken to him several times and learned a lot from him. You are still the best Frank. Rest in peace my friend.
Ellen
Lauran Halleck
July 29, 2011
We lost a true champion, advocate and gentleman today. rest in peace, Mr. Bender, rest in peace with your dear wife. Thank you for all you have done.
Chester & Ginger
July 29, 2011
Thank you, Mr. Frank Bender, for using your skills to "trap" killers who otherwise would've been free to continue their horrific crimes. As you stand next to God, you will know all His answers to all of His mysterious ways.
God Bless your family & friends in their time of sorrow.
Amy Palmieri
July 29, 2011
What an amazing man he was! His loss is hugely felt by his family, friends, and the world at large who benefited so much from his incredible talents. My sincere condolences to all those who dearly loved him. Rest in peace.
Anonymous
July 29, 2011
To the family and friends of Mr. Bender, even though I never met him he must have been a wonderful man. We must never forget all the wonderful and talented work that he did with his sculptures, especially helping the families of missing(deceased)persons being identified. May family/friends have some comfort in knowing that he is at peace and no longer suffering. We will never forget him. Rest in peace
Showing 1 - 100 of 118 results
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