Kathleen Betty (Leason) Bender of Big Rapids passed away at home Wednesday, October 24, 2018 at the age of 80. Kathy was born August 14, 1938 in Chicago, Illinois. She married Gerald Bender in Niles, Michigan on August 24, 1955. Kathy retired from Kraft Tube in Reed City. She is survived by her husband of 63 years; her four children, Gwendolyn (Bender) Akom, John Bender, Robin Bender and Perry Bender. She has 10 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother and a sister. There will be no public services. Share a memory or condolence with the family at www.daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com