Forrest "Gene" Eugene Bender

Forrest "Gene" E. Bender, 82, of Coshocton, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at Licking Memorial Hospital in Newark.

Born at his family home in Coshocton County on August 20, 1943, Gene was the son of the late James and Anna (Jones) Bender.

Gene graduated from Keene High School and proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1965 to 1971. Following his military service, he was employed at Ansell Edmonts for 32 years before retiring. He was a dedicated member of the Keene Hill Grange for 25 years and generously gave his time as a 4-H advisor, positively impacting the lives of many young people. Gene was an avid bowler and a loyal fan of the Ohio State Buckeyes, Cleveland Browns and Cleveland Guardians, who will always be the Indians to him, supporting his teams through every season.

Gene will be deeply missed by his loving children, Scott (Amanda) Bender of Coshocton and Eugenia "Genia" (Chris) Long of Granville; his cherished grandchildren, Nash (Ariana) Bender, Dakota Bender, Ethan Bender, Destiny Bender, Kyra McWhorter, Allie Long, Kodi McWhorter, Caleb Long, and Ezra Long; and four great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Gene was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 46 years, Nancy Bender, who passed away in 2018, and by his brother, James R. (Pat) Bender.

Family and friends may call at Miller Funeral Home, 639 Main St., Coshocton, OH 43812, on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 from 11:00am - 12:00pm with funeral services beginning at 12:00pm with Pastor Mike Rogers officiating. Burial will follow at Coshocton County Memory Gardens, where the Coshocton County Veterans Honor Guard will conduct military honors in recognition of Gene's faithful service to his country.

Memorial contributions can be directed towards Catholic Social Services, Newark; envelopes will be available at the funeral home.