Gene Samuel Bender

Gene Samuel Bender, 95, passed away Saturday, August 8, 2026 at Kansas Christian Home, Newton, Kansas. He was born on August 29, 1930 to Samuel Lewis and Nellie Crawford Bender in rural Sedgwick, Kansas.

Gene was a lifelong farmer. As a boy he learned from and helped his dad at home which, because he knew how to drive a truck, led to being drafted by the Selective Service for the Army in 1951. He picked up and delivered supplies all over Germany. Gene had many fond memories of his travels, adventures and buddies he made in the Army.

Upon his return, he married the girl next door, Bethine Yung. They made their home in rural Kinsley for 68 years before retiring to Newton. During their 70 years of marriage, Gene and Bethine, entertained family and friends, took part in many local events and enjoyed domestic and international travels. Bethine preceded Gene in death on October 18th, 2024.

Gene worked the farm alongside his father in law, WF Yung. His commitment to caring for the family home and land was evident as everything was always tidy and organized and a testament to his love of nature and faith that everything would always be okay.

He was known as a kind person who could always be relied upon to help those with a need. Often he would help neighbors solve a farming problem or drive a friend to an appointment.

His favorite hobby was fishing which he did every chance he got. Then, later in life, he learned how to do woodworking. That resulted in many projects completed around the community of Kinsley.

He was a long-time member of the Congregational Church of Christ and later a member of the First Christian Church of Kinsley.

During his life, Gene was an active member of the local CO-OPS, local square dance club, 4-H, and served in both churches on various committees.

Being a dad to Chuck and Amy; then later Grandad to Katie and Billy was one of his favorite roles. He supported them all by being as present as time allowed, always with patience and a smile!

In addition to his parents and beloved wife, Gene was preceded in death by his infant sister, Ruth, and brother Dale Bender. He is survived by his son Charles ‘Chuck’ Louis Bender, Halstead, daughter Amy (Bender) Bauer(Steve), Kinsley; Granddaughter Katie Ellingson (Emery), Carbondale, CO; and grandson William ‘Billy’ Bauer (Mikayla), Oakley. Sister in law, Joyce Bender, Newton; brother in law William ‘Billy’ G. Yung, Galena, MO and several cousins, nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be Thursday, August 13th, 10:30am the First Christian Church of Kinsley.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the First Christian Church of Kinsley