Peter G. Bender

Peter G. Bender, 82, of Rock Rd., Verona, passed away with his loving family at his side on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at the Wynn Hospital in Utica after suffering a brain aneurysm on Wednesday, February 18th.

He was born on July 27, 1943, in Cleveland Heights, Ohio, the son of Lawrence J. and Helen A. (Surdy) Bender. Peter was a 1961 graduate of St. Ignatius High School and a 1965 graduate of Xavier University.

On May 27, 1966, Peter enlisted as an artillery officer in the United States Marines Corps. He was honorably discharged as a Captain on May 15, 1969.

On January 12, 1991, Peter was united in marriage to Brenda J. Kustyn in Our Lady of Good Counsel Church in Verona.

Peter was the owner and operator of Asphalt Plant Parts for fifteen years, retiring in 2005. He then went to work for the Turning Stone Resort and Casino where he enjoyed the camaraderie of his customers and colleagues.

A proud veteran, he carried his love of his nation throughout his life and remained steadfast in supporting his fellow servicemen and women. He was a proud participant in the Clear Path for Veterans community in Chittenango, where he found camaraderie and continued purpose among those who shared his commitment to service.

A man of deep and abiding Catholic faith, Peter was a devoted member of Our Lady of Good Counsel Church in Verona where he served as a Lector. His faith was not only something he practiced on just Sundays, but something he lived every day through his kindness, generosity, and quiet strength.

Known affectionately as a "gentle giant," Peter possessed a commanding presence matched only by his tender heart. He loved God, his family, and his country with unwavering devotion. Time spent with family and friends was what he cherished most, whether gathered around the table for a lively game of cards or enjoying a relaxing round of golf.

Surviving besides his loving wife, Brenda; are his children, Katie (Greg) Drager, of Berea, OH, Neil Bender, of Cleveland, OH, Deacon Christopher (Connie) Evans of Waterford, OH, Joseph Evans, of Land O Lakes, FL, and Lisa (John) Evans Walts, of Sherrill; one brother, Richard Bender, of Cleveland, OH; seventeen grandchildren; sixteen great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Peter was predeceased by a brother, Lawrence Bender; a son, Peter Bender; a sister, Marianne Morth; two sisters-in-law, Susan Bender and Mary Bender; and a great-granddaughter, Luna Evans.

A Mass of the Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at 10:30 AM at Our Lady of Good Counsel, 5652 E. Main St., Verona, where the Rev. Edmund A. Castronovo will officiate. Interment with Military Honors will take place in Gerald H. B. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in the spring. There are no calling hours. Memorial contributions may be made in Peter's memory to Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, 5652 E. Main St., Verona, NY, 13478, or Clear Path for Veterans, 1223 Salt Springs Rd., Chittenango, NY, 13037. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Ironside Family Funeral Homes, Inc., 23 Front St., Verona.