Obituary of Craig Kavanaugh Bender

Craig Kavanaugh Bender was born on December 26, 1948, and passed away on November 1, 2021 at 72 years old. He fought hard and successfully beat pancreatic cancer but passed away from pneumonia and a blood infection. Craig graduated from Paschal High School in 1967 and graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 1971 with a bachelor’s degree in Journalism. He was a member of the Sigma Fi fraternity. He worked for over 45 years in the Corrosion Engineering business. Craig was a member of the National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE). He married the love of his life, Peggy Bender on May 19, 1985, and became the father of her 12-year-old daughter, Tina. Craig loved Tina as his own and she loved him as a father. He and Peggy traveled the world, going to over 14 countries as well as traveling throughout the US. He loved going to Bennett Springs every year for a family reunion. Craig was a member of St. Stephen Presbyterian Church since 1971 and was a faithful man who was active in his church. Craig and Peggy went on over 10 mission trips to Mexico to build houses for families in need. Craig was active in the Room in the Inn mission at St. Stephen for 14 years—it was dear to his heart. His wife would like to thank all of his doctors and nurses for the wonderful care and compassion during this year and thank St. Stephen Presbyterian church staff, deacons, and members for their love, support, and prayers. Craig is survived by his wife, Peggy; daughter, Tina Beach (Bob); grandchildren, Lauren Garrett (Nathan), Travis Johnson (Brandon), Ben Johnson (Kelsey), Hayden Beach; great-grandchildren, Kinley and Codi Garrett and Bennett and Garrett Johnson; brother, Rick Bender (Nora); niece, Amy Bender; nephew, Andrew Bender (Tatiana); great-nephews, Tristan, Connor, and Logan Bender.