JAMES G. BENDER James G. Bender, 78, Cooperstown, ND died Friday, October 21, 2016 in his home. Jim was born October 26, 1937 in Valley City, ND the son of Ralph and Agnes (Paul) Bender. He grew up in Cooperstown, ND and graduated from Cooperstown High School. Jim married Mary Helm June 24, 1961 in the First Presbyterian Church in Cooperstown, ND . The couple made their home in Cooperstown, ND. Jim worked with his dad in the family business, Bender’s Propane; Jim ran the business until 2000 when health issues caused him to sell to Farmer’s Oil Company. Jim continued to help Arrowwood Coop until retiring in 2010. He was active in the community serving on City Council, Knights of Pythias, past Fire Chief of the Cooperstown Fire Department and the Cooper Theatre group. Jim enjoyed hunting, fishing, skiing (water and cross country) golfing and spending time with his grandchildren. Jim also was a member of the North Dakota Air National Guard and Civil Air Patrol. He is survived by his wife, Mary of 55 years; son, Steve (Tracey), Honolulu, HI; daughter, Deborah (Bryan) Pfeifer, Cooperstown, ND; grandchildren, Rusty, Sharra (Nick), Damian Pfeifer, Charles Olson, Shaqualya Mitchell, LaBrandon Coney; great grandchild, LaBrandon, Jr.; brother, Richard (Pam) Bender, Clearwater, MN. He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Alan; brother, Paul. Jim’s wishes were for a private graveside service. To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of JAMES G. BENDER, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.