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Duane Bender Obituary
June 28, 1946 - December 6, 2025
Duane Richard Bender, 79, of Billings, Mont., passed away peacefully at his home on December 6, 2025, after a long history of many strokes.
Duane was born on June 28, 1946, to Fred (Emil) and Marie Hein Bender. After graduating from Senior High in 1964, he enrolled in agriculture at Eastern Montana College, Billings. In 1966 he married Vicki Marcher. The next few years they spent working in Yellowstone Park in the summer and Mesa, Ariz. in the winter. Then from 1974-2024 they formed Palm Tree Construction, and several other businesses such as over the road trucking, subdivisions, building houses, 600 acres of hay, and rentals. Duane was known as the MacGyver of the west end. He would drop whatever he was doing to help everyone.
Duane was a clarinet player in Senior High, the Community Band, the Shrine Band, and his own Band. Duane could play the clarinet, saxophone, guitar, piano and his favorite, the hammer dulcimer.
He went to Polka Fests all over the states as he loved to dance. He enjoyed woodworking where he made rockers and cradles for kids and weddings bells for the adults. He will be truly missed by everyone.
Duane was predeceased by his father and mother, Fred and Marie; brother, Vernon; and nephew, Michael; and baby brother, Donald.
Duane is survived by sister, Marilyn Martin and family; brother, Ronald (Darlene) and family; and Vicki Bender, who has stayed by his side during his health issues.
Services will be held at Pilgrim Congregation Church on December 16, 2025, at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, make donations to Pilgrim Congregational Church in Duane's name.
Memories and Condolences
for Duane Bender
Sponsored by Smith Funeral Chapels - Downtown Downtown.
3 Entries
Charles
December 18, 2025
Julie
Sorry to hear of your family s loss. Diane was as good hard working man for sure.
-Charles G
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Jerry Schenk
December 15, 2025
I remember Duane from church & growing up in the hood. A great person always willing to help you, gods speed friend
Dale and Kitty
December 13, 2025
Kitty and I met Duane in 1978 when he graciously helped me on a weekend. Always smiling and fun to talk to over the years. His Palm Tree company provided us with several different services in 2004. Our sincere condolences to Vicky. Dale and Kitty Butterfield.
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