Charles H. Bender Jr.

GUILDERLAND – Charles H. Bender Jr., 78, of Guilderland, passed away on Monday February 13, 2012 in Johnson City, NY after an extended illness. He was born in Saratoga Springs and was the son of the late Charles Sr. and Jessie Bender.

Charlie had worked as a deliveryman for many years. He was a firefighter with the Albany Fire Department for over twenty years, retiring in 1988. Charlie was a 38 year respected and loved member of the North Bethlehem Fire Dept., where he was fondly known as Grandpa. He was a Department Past Commissioner and most recently served as the Captain of Fire Police. Charlie was a member of the Albany Firefighter Retirees, FASNY and Albany County Fireman's Association and Past President of the Albany County Fire Police Association. He loved animals, enjoyed camping and spending time with his dear family and friends.

Charlie is the beloved husband of 51 years to Mary Claughsey Bender. He is the devoted father of Wallace R. (Lulu) Ferguson, Elizabeth Shutter (Patricia Bollock), William (Robin) Ferguson, Jessica Bender (Alfred) and the late Joseph P. Ferguson. Charlie is also survived by 10 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren and his niece, Patricia Thompson and family. He will be missed by his canine companion, Shania.

Funeral services with Departmental Honors will be Saturday morning at 8:00 am at New Comer Cannon Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Rd. Colonie then to All Saints Catholic Church at 9:00 where the Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Calling hours will be Friday from 4 to 8 pm at the funeral home. Interment will follow the Mass at Memory Gardens. Memorial contributions may be made in Charlie's name to North Bethlehem Fire Dept., 589 Russell Road, Albany, NY 12203.