Edna Lucile Bender, 68, of Flandreau, SD, passed away on Friday, June 20, 2025 at Ava's House in Sioux Falls, SD. A memorial service will be held at 5:00PM on Friday, June 27, 2025 at Skroch Funeral Chapel in Flandreau, SD. Following the service there will be a reception at Eastman Hall.

Edna was born on June 23, 1956 to Peter and Ramona (Greeley) Bender in Roberts County, SD. She grew up and received her education as a child in Wilmot, SD. She was well educated receiving both her bachelors and master's degrees. She worked as a registered nurse for 46 years. Edna was very passionate about her job as a registered nurse and her faith in our Lord.

Her hobbies included cooking, baking, gardening, sewing, and reading. Above all, she loved spending time with her children and grandchildren.

Edna was a member of the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate.

Grateful for having shared her life are her children: Chris (Jaymie) Christianson of Riverton, WY, Charlie Christianson of Sioux Falls, SD, Sarah Benting of Flandreau, SD, and JoAnna Benting of Sioux Falls, SD; brother, Tom Bender (Julie Sims) of Minneapolis, MN; sister,  Fena (Richard) Redwing of Summit, SD; grandchildren: Christopher Christianson, Tyler Crantz, TaShauna Campbell, Alyssa Christianson, Kenneth Bender, Saraya Weddell, Adryauna Benting, Ari Benting, and Surreal Bergie; and several great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Peter and Ramona Bender; brothers, James and Peter Bender Jr.; and aunt, Doris Greeley.