SALINA — On Monday, Oct. 29, 2018, Brian Bender, beloved brother, passed in an auto accident at the age of 59.

Brian was born on April 7, 1959 in Salina, Kan. to Milton and Dolores Bender. Brian has always had a deep passion for ballet. He studied and performed Dance at York University and Creighton University. He danced for the Alberta Ballet Company and was a member of the corps de ballet with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet. He taught at numerous Ballet companies and completed many guest performances for events in both the United States and Canada. He shared his passion for dance as a teacher and coach as well as opening his own dance school to help young dancers realize their dreams. Brian is remembered as a great friend with the kindest of hearts and an inspiration to his students.

Brian was preceded in death by his parents, Milton and Dolores. He is survived by his sister, Brenda Schartz, also of Salina; two nieces; a nephew; and many cousins. 

A celebration of Brian’s life will be held on Dec. 1, 2018 from 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. in the banquet room of the Candlewood Suites in Salina, Kan. A light lunch and refreshments will be provided. 

A scholarship has been set up in Brian’s name at the Omaha Academy of Dance for students wishing to attend the summer dance camp in which Brian taught many young dancers. Memorial donations can be sent for the scholarship, with reference to Brian Bender, to Omaha Academy of Ballet, c/o Penny Michonski, 319 N. 72nd Street, Omaha, NE 68114.

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Nov. 13, 2018