James Bendel

James F. Bendel

Age 72 of Wilmington, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 28, 2020, at the Manteno Veterans Home.

Born January 3, 1948 in Chicago, James Francis was a son of Raymond and Sarah (nee Davis) Bendel. He was raised and educated in Wilmington, and would go on to serve honorably in the United States Army during the Vietnam Era. Following his military service James gained employment as a pipefitter, and was a member of his local union. In his free time, he took great pleasure in being outdoors. Some of James' favorite pastimes were spent hunting and fishing. He also enjoyed working on cars and playing blackjack.

Survivors include his wife, Deborah K. Bendel of Paducah, Kentucky; two sons: Chad Bendel and Chance Bendel, both of Paducah, Kentucky; one granddaughter, Olivia Bendel; and four siblings: Barbara Bendel of Gardner, Bruce (Margaret) Bendel of Safford, Arizona, Dan (Barbara) Bendel of Wilmington, and Anita (Tom) Proffit of Wilmington.

James was preceded in death by his parents, and two brothers: David Bendel and Russell Bendel.

Per James' wishes, cremation rites will be accorded, and family and friends will assemble on Monday, February 3, 2020, at Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 East Kahler Road, in Wilmington at 9:15 a.m. to depart in funeral procession at 9:30 a.m. for Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, where James will be inurned with full military honors.

Family and friends may sign the online guest book, upload photographs, or share James' memorial page by logging onto: www.BaskervilleFuneral.com

Cremation services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Baskerville Funeral Home in Wilmington (815) 476-2181.