Dona Mar Bender, an Oak Harbor resident for the past 25 years, died at her home on April 25, 2006 at the age of 90. She was born May 5, 1915 in Minong, Wis., to John and Orpha (Boldon) Cox.

Dona was raised in Wisconsin. Following high school, she moved to Chicago where she was employed as a bookbinder at Cuneo Press. While in Chicago, she met Ronald H. Bender and on Oct. 24, 1935, they were married. Their children were all born in Chicago.

In 1949, Ron accepted a position with an electrical contractor and the family moved to LaMesa, Calif. In 1973 Ron retired and he and Dona began to travel the United States. In the late 1970s they moved to Lynnwood and in 1980, settled in Oak Harbor. Oak Harbor became their home of record but they continued their travels for many years.

Dona loved to read and had an extensive book collection. She also collected dolls, plates, elephants, lighthouses and enjoyed puzzles and crossword puzzles.

Dona is survived by five children and their spouses: Gail and Ray French of Babson Park, Fla.; Rawnie Hof of Oak Harbor; Diana and James Smith of Kingman, Ariz.; Martin and Karen Bender of Ogden, Utah; and Linda Bender of Oak Harbor. One sister Grey Cox of Mission, Texas, 13 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren and five great-great grandchildren also survive. Her husband Ronald Bender and one son-in-law, Wayne Hof preceded her in death.

Cremation was held with private family memorial services. Inurnment will follow. Arrangements were entrusted to Burley Funeral Chapel, Oak Harbor.