Wilma Gertrude Bender

It is with great sadness that the family of Wilma Bender (née Fridgen) announces her passing on May 1, 2026, in Vernon, BC.

Wilma was born on March 20, 1934, in Windthorst, Yugoslavia. After the war, Wilma, along with her parents and siblings, immigrated and settled on a farm in La Serena, Chile. In 1953, Wilma married Josef Bender, and in 1961, she and her family immigrated to Canada, eventually settling in the community of Bowness in Calgary, Alberta. There, she raised seven children and welcomed her first grandchildren.

Wilma was very involved in her children’s lives and worked hard to create a happy home. She also worked as a house cleaner, through which she developed many good friendships. In 1985, Wilma separated from Josef and moved to Vernon, BC, to be closer to her grandchildren.

Wilma was a very talented seamstress who learnt her trade in Munich, Germany. She used these skills to secure a position at Far West Clothing Company, where she worked in the design department. In 1987, she purchased her own home and was very proud of her independence.

During this time, Wilma enjoyed tending to her gardens, working on her home, and spending time with friends and family in both Vernon and Calgary. After retiring, she took several extended trips to Germany to visit her parents, her two sisters, and their families. She also helped care for her parents in their final days.

Wilma had a special place in her heart for her grandchildren. There were many sleepovers at Grandma’s house, filled with rambunctious yard games followed by cake and ice cream. In her eighties, Wilma began developing dementia and was cared for at home by her son Robert until October 2023, when she entered a nursing home.

Wilma shared a particularly special bond with her first and only granddaughter, Jennifer Coleman. The family is grateful to Jennifer for her support during Wilma’s time in the nursing home, especially for being there after Wilma fell and broke her hip.

Wilma is survived by her children: Richard Bender, Peter Bender (Brenda), Christine Rogowski (Don), Robert Bender, Arny Bender (Malim), and Kathy Jansen (David); her grandchildren: Bobby Bird, Jennifer Coleman (Rod Baker), Will Bender (Megan), Danny Bender (Jess), Myles Bender, Steven Rogowski, Nicholas Rogowski (Cassy), Jonathan Bender, Keagan Jansen, and Thomas Jansen; and her great-grandchildren: Ethan Coleman, Henry Baker, and Sophie Bender. She is also survived by her sisters, Martha Wagner and Hilde Mojses (Stefan); her brothers-in-law, Wally Bender and George Bender; her many nieces and nephews; and her good friend, Dianna Clarke.

Wilma was predeceased by her daughter, Monika Bender; her brother, Herbert Fridgen; her parents; her sisters-in- law, Linda Bender and Rosa Chowanetz; and her brothers-in-law, Joseph Wagner, Rudy Chowanetz, and Victor Bender.

Wilma will be lovingly remembered and greatly missed by everyone she leaves behind.

Wilma’s life will be celebrated at a later date.

Arrangements entrusted to

Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services 250-558-0866

Condolences may be expressed to the family by phone or email through Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services: