Gordon “Gordy” Bender, 101, died peacefully in his sleep May 16, 2019. He was the husband of the late Helen (Burnell) Bender. They were married for 57 years. He was the son of the late William and Lotte Bender. He grew up in Catasauqua and raised his family in Emmaus.

He worked for Mack Trucks from the age of 18 until his retirement. He was proud of his work helping to organize the UAW and serving as a shop steward for many years.

He served in the U.S. Army, a Master Sergeant veteran of World War II, in the South Pacific.

He was a tireless worker on and off the job but enjoyed family vacations, world travel with his wife and a sweet retirement in Florida.

He attributed his longevity to physical activity, no smoking, social beer-drinking, singing, dancing, and golf (which he played until he was 94). In his later years he enjoyed his flower gardens and bird feeders. He considered himself Penn State’s No. 1 football fan, even scouting for future players. He was very proud of his children and had fun with the next two generations.

He is survived by his children Barbara (Barry) Gordon, Marsha (Steven) Johnson and Gary (Linda); seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by brothers Lester, Romaine and Kenneth.

Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. May 22 at the Brubaker Funeral Home, Inc., 234 Walnut St., Catasauqua. Viewing 10 to 11 a.m. May 22 at the funeral home.