Alice Roselyn Bender (nee Nicolet), age 87, of Madison, formerly of Hambden Township, peacefully passed away on Sept. 19, 2024.
Born to Roy and Maude (nee Cunningham) Nicolet, in Cleveland, Alice was a shining example of hard work, love and devotion.
Her life’s journey took a beautiful turn when she met Charles Bender while working at the Thompson Drag Raceway. The two fell deeply in love and married on Oct. 7, 1961, in Montville Township, building a life together filled with love and laughter.
Alice was a part of the Thompson Drag Raceway family from its very beginning in 1958 and continued working there until 2010. She also spent decades as a dedicated bookkeeper at AJ Goulder Electric in Chardon from 1961 until her retirement.
Known for her incredible work ethic, Alice juggled several jobs at once, always giving her best while never seeking recognition for herself.
But Alice’s true legacy is the love she gave to her family and community. She and Charles created a warm and welcoming home in Chardon, where they raised their three children.
Alice’s selflessness knew no bounds — she always put the needs of others before her own and was happiest when she was caring for her family, friends and neighbors.
A longtime member of the Hambden Congregational Church, her faith and commitment to helping others were constant and unwavering.
Alice was cherished by everyone who knew her. She was a woman who radiated kindness and warmth, never asking for anything in return. She found joy in the simple pleasures: watching the Cleveland Indians, working on word searches, reading a good romance novel and enjoying a scoop of her favorite ice cream.
She gave so much love to the world and never asked for anything more than time spent with those she held dear.
Alice leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication, survived by her children, Caryl Bump, of Madison, Ronald (Tina) Bender, of Chardon, and Donald (Julie) Bender, of Estero, Fla.
She is also survived by her sister Caryl Feiler, of Arkansas; 12 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and her dear brothers- and sisters-in-law.
Her gentle spirit and unconditional love will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know her.
Preceded in death by her beloved husband, Charles; parents; son-in-law, Lance Bump; two brothers; and a sister.
Alice is now at peace, reunited with those she loved.
Visitation for family and friends will be held on Monday, Sept. 23, 2024, from 4-6 p.m., at Burr Funeral Home, 116 South St., Chardon, followed by a funeral service at 6 p.m.
Interment will take place in Hacker Valley, W. Va.
The family suggests donations in Alice’s memory be made to Hambden Congregational Church, 13840 GAR Highway, Chardon, OH 44024.
Arrangements entrusted to Burr Funeral Home. Online condolences may be shared at www.burrservice.com.
The post Alice Roselyn Bender first appeared on Geauga County Maple Leaf.