John L. Bender, 72, of Bern Twp., died Tuesday, September 15, 2015 in the Reading Hospital and Medical Center. Born in Bern Twp., John was the son of the late Levi John and Emily R. (Mengel) Bender. He was a lifelong member of Epler's Church, Bern Twp. John was a US Army veteran of the Vietnam War. John worked as a stainer for the former Quaker Maid Kitchens, Leesport, for 28 years, later working for Fruchter Aviation, Reading. He loved model trains, snowmobiling, motorcycles, and boats. John is resting in peach with his beloved dog, Colonel. John was proud to say that he lived his entire life in the family home in Bern Twp. John is survived by two brothers: Richard C. husband of Madelline N. (Fretz) Bender, Bern Twp., and Arthur N. husband of Mary E. (Troutman) Bender, Wernersville; a sister in law: Shirley M. (Kline) Bender, Spring Twp.; and his nieces and nephews: Art J. Bender, Debra Moyer, Bonnie Dunkelberger, Faith Heim, and Heather Kuhn. John is also survived by his best friend Ronald L. husband of Julie A. (Zerbe) Crossley, Jefferson Twp. He was predeceased by a brother: Marvin Bender; and two nephews: Kent and Darrell Bender. Services will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2015 from Epler's Church, 1151 West Leesport Rd., Leesport at 11:00 A.M. Burial will be private at the convenience of the family in Epler's Cemetery. A viewing will be held in the church from 10:00 to 11:00 A.M. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be sent to: Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter No. 131 P.O. Box 13735 Reading, PA 19612 Leibensperger Funeral Homes, Inc., Leesport is in charge of arrangements. For online condolences, please visit www.leibenspergerfuneralhomes.com