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Kelly Joe Bender, age 70 of Omaha, Nebraska, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 21st, 2025, at the Josie Harper Hospice House in Omaha, Nebraska.  He was born on  August 6th, 1955, in Geneva, Nebraska to Rodney and Mary Lou (Braun) Bender.

A graduate of Louisville High School, Class of 1973.  Kelly married Julie Larsen in August of 1976, with whom he shared the joy of his son Rodney. Although they later divorced, they maintained a strong friendship and mutual respect.  He proudly served his country as a member of the United States Marines for 18.5 years, dedicating himself with honor and courage. Following his military service, he built a career in Information Technology, most notably working for West Corporation and contributing to QLI's maintenance team.

Kelly maintained lifelong friendships with classmates and family, often reminiscing about the beloved Nebraska Cornhuskers, Kansas City Chiefs, and his passion for sports. He enjoyed the tranquility of hunting and cherished trips to the family farm in Hebron, sharing his love for cattle auctions and sale barns.  Kelly enjoyed staying in contact with his oldest grandson, Jadyn who followed in his footsteps by joining the Marine Corp.

He is survived by his son Rodney Bender of Omaha, NE, and his  grandchildren—Jadyn (Courtney) Bender of Las Vegas, NV, Bryn Bender, Ruby Bender, and Crew Bender all of Omaha, NE,  his great-grandchildren, Evie, Asher, and Violet Bender, as well as his sister, Chris (Bruce) Forell of Arcadia, CA, and brother, Kirk (Leslie) Bender of Omaha. Kelly's life was enriched by numerous nephews, a niece and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his father Rodney  Bender, mother (and stepfather) Mary Lou and Frank Koterzina, brother Kevin Bender, and granddaughter Charlie Bender.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Fusselman-Allen-Harvey Funeral Home Chapel, 413 Elm Street, Louisville, Nebraska.

Visitation will be Friday, September 26, 2025 from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM with family greeting friends from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at the Funeral Home.

Burial with full Military Honors will be in Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery in rural Louisville, Nebraska.

Memorials may be directed to the family for future designation.

Arrangements are under the direction of Fusselman-Allen-Harvey Funeral Home, Louisville, Nebraska.  For inquires, call 402-234-3985.