Anthony W. Bender was born in La Crosse, WI to Jim and Peggy (Emmons) Bender on December 13, 1968, and passed away unexpectedly of natural causes on February 26, 2011. From the beginning, he charmed all with his infectious smile and beautiful big blue eyes. He was a happy, energetic little boy who grew into a loving and caring man.\r\nTony graduated from UW-Stout in 1995, with a degree in Construction Management and worked as a Project Manager for Menards, Goldridge Group, Ashley Corporation and Rawlins Construction out of Texas. His longest and most enjoyable employment was with the Rawlins Group and while residing for a time in Texas (where daughter, Breanna, was born), he was blessed to be in the company of close, extended family members who live in the Dallas area. He was anticipating being transferred back to his "Texas family" at the time of his untimely death.\r\nTony married Carmen Nichols on October 11, 1997, at Grace Lutheran Church in Eau Claire, and was a beaming and proud Daddy to their children, Breanna Marie (14) and Austin Anthony (10). Tony and Carmen later divorced but maintained a good relationship as they continued to jointly parent their precious children. Breanna and Austin truly were the "lights of his life".\r\nLeisure time would find Tony in his Chef's hat - he was an incredible cook! - or on the links with his favorite golf partner, son Austin. Fishing and hunting were deemed nearly holy experiences, as were the many hours he spent cheering for "The Pack". Tony treasured his close relationships with his nuclear and large extended family, which included many very dear friends who were like brothers to him. He was very generous with his love, and with his Hugs!\r\nLeft to mourn his earthly passing are his beloved children, Breanna and Austin Bender of Eau Claire; parents, Jim and Peg Bender of Eau Claire; two brothers, Paul Bender of Centennial, CO and Mark (Julie) Bender of Eau Claire; former wife and friend, Carmen Bender of Eau Claire; aunts and uncles, Leslie (David) Duell, David (Theresa) Bender, Roy (Cathy) Emmons, Mary Cook, Michael (Janet) McClanahan, Linda Green, and Debbie McClanahan. He is further survived by innumerous other close family members and friends. Tony loved - and was loved by - many people in his life.\r\nHe is now reunited in Heaven with grandparents, Leonard and Sally Bender, Connie and Roger Williams, Stanley Emmons, Fridel Settle, Sally McClanahan, and many other cherished extended family members.\r\nMemorial Service will be at 11 a.m. on Friday, March 4, 2011, at Grace Lutheran Church, 202 West Grand Avenue, Eau Claire, with Rev. David Irgens officiating. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 3, 2011 at Lenmark Gomsrud Linn Funeral Home, 814 First Ave., Eau Claire, and one hour prior to the service Friday at the church. \r\nTony - You began your earthly life under my heart, you now reside within it. Love you Always - "higher than the sky...higher than the airplanes go". Rest in Peace, my beloved son. Mom\r\n

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