Lee J. Bendinger

Rock Rapids, Iowa

  Lee J. Bendinger age 76, of Sioux Falls, SD, formerly of Rock Rapids, IA passed away on July 11, 2024, at the Royal C. Johnson Veterans Medical Center in Sioux Falls, SD.

  The family will be receiving family and friends on Wednesday, July 31st from 10:00 to 12:00 PM at the Jurrens Funeral Home of Rock Rapids.

  Inurnment will immediately follow the visitation at Riverview Cemetery of Rock Rapids, with full military honors.

  Lee J. Bendinger was born March 26, 1948, in Rock Rapids, Iowa, the son of Robert W. and June D. (Dodson) Bendinger. He was raised in Rock Rapids and graduated from Central Lyon High School. Lee was united in marriage Melody Snitselaar in Rock Rapids, IA. They made their home in Rock Rapids until Lee enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served for 37 years, earning the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. During his time in the military, they lived all over the world and returned to Sioux Falls, SD following his honorable discharge.

  On March 20, 2013, Lee’s wife of 47 years, died. Lee remained living in Sioux Falls and stayed active with the V.F.W. activities. 

  On July 11, 2024, Lee died at the Royal C. Johnson Medical Center in Sioux Falls, SD, at the age of 76.

  Left to cherish his memory is his daughter, Dawn Bedell of Sioux Falls, SD; three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; Megan Moss of Tucson, AZ and her children Shaelynn and William; Michael (Chrish) Moss of Tucson, AZ and their children Joshua and Parker; Ashlee (Samuel) Longhenry and their son Porter of Sioux Falls, SD; sister, Carol (Steve) Enyeart of Estes, CO; and several nieces, nephews, other extended family; and special friend, Sandi Groen.

  He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and June Bendinger; loving wife, Melody Bendinger; daughter, Shawna Bendinger; grandson, Joshua Richard Moss; and brother, Robbie Bendinger.