James Bendt, age 69 of Portage, Ind., passed away at his home on June 14, 2012.

He was born on October 29, 1942 in Gary, Ind., to Frederick William Bendt and Ruby (Daniels) Bendt, both of whom preceded him in death.

On September 18, 1965 he married Nancy (McClure) Bendt who survives of Portage.

He is also survived by his son William A. Bendt of Portage, daughters Janet M. (Buck) Choisser of Chesterton, Sandra Bendt of Michigan City, and Susan (Chris) Cummins of Knox, Ind.; brothers Dave (Pat) Bendt of Roaring River, North Carolina and Dan (Mary) Bendt of Knox, Ind.; multiple grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

James was also preceded in death by his sister Janet Lopez.

He was a lifelong area resident, a member of St. Peter Lutheran Church in Portage, and was a retired Chesterton firefighter, having served for 34 years.

In retirement he worked as a sales associate at Sears Hardware where he made many friends and built many lasting relationships. He loved to garden and spent much of his free time helping others.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, June 20, at 11:00 a.m. at Edmonds & Evans Funeral Home, Portage Chapel, 6941 Central Avenue Portage, Indiana. Cremation will follow at Heritage Crematory in Portage.

Visitation will be held Tuesday June 19, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Online condolences to the family may be made at www.ee-fh.com

Posted 6/18/2012