David N. Bender

David Neil “Dave” Bender, a beloved and cherished man, passed away with his loving family by his side on May 1, 2025 in St. Luke’s Hospital, at the age of 73. Born on September 19, 1951, in Acushnet, Dave was the son of the late Gordon and Helen (Synnott) Bender. He was a graduate of New Bedford High School and resided in New Bedford, Massachusetts.

Dave was a devoted father to Daniel Bender and his partner Winnie Zhen of New Bedford, and Stephanie Elston and her husband Luke of New Bedford and England. He was a proud grandfather (Grampsy) to Kai Elston. David is also survived by his sister, Susan Hart, and her husband Nick of Dartmouth, and his brother, Stephen Bender, and his wife Sueann of Mattapoisett. His nieces and nephews, Dawn Jenkins, Joshua Bender, and Lauren Hart, also mourn his passing.

Dave was known for his positivity, humorous nature and his love of music. A self-taught guitarist, he enjoyed playing his guitar and was an avid fan of Jimi Hendrix and Bob Dylan. He was a skilled craftsman, working as a carpenter for most of his life and loved creating things with wood and his bare hands and took so much pride in his work. He loved his English comedies and loved his family dearly, especially his grandson Kai. His fondest memories were of when his son and daughter were children and all of the adventures he would take them on. He loved his pets dearly and always had a companion by his side whether it was a dog, cat or bird throughout his life. Dave was fond of telling his dad jokes, always bringing laughter to those around him. As he would say, “I am the dude that will make you laugh when you really need it”.

He will be fondly remembered for his kindness, love for his family, and his cherished legacy of laughter and music.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 15, 2025 from 2:00 to 4:00PM in the Rock Funeral Home, 1285 Ashley Blvd, New Bedford, MA 02745. Relatives and friends are invited. To leave a note of condolence: www.rock-funeralhome.com