Alfred Jasper "Pete" Bender, III

Alfred Jasper Bender III, affectionately known as “Pete,” passed away on April 25, 2025, in Louisville, Kentucky, at the age of 80. Though he departed in Kentucky, his spirit remained deeply rooted in the place he loved most—Gulf Breeze, Florida. Born on July 10, 1944, in Alexandria, Louisiana, Pete lived a life defined by service, adventure, and an enduring love for family and friends. As the son of a military father, Dutch, and mother, Lucy, Pete experienced a childhood shaped by movement and discovery. By his teenage years, he had lived in England, Guam, the Philippines, and various parts of the United States. He completed high school in Vicksburg, Mississippi, before his family ultimately settled in Gulf Breeze during his college years.A dedicated student and athlete, Pete was a varsity letterman in high school and pursued higher education with remarkable determination. He attended Florida Military College and went on to study at eight additional universities across the country, earning multiple degrees and certifications. He later completed a master’s degree in financial management.Following in his father’s footsteps, Pete embarked on a distinguished 20-year career in the United States Army. As a young lieutenant, he volunteered for and served two combat tours in Vietnam as a tank commander. His military service took him across the globe, with assignments in Germany, England, Japan, Hawaii, the Pentagon, and beyond. Rising to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, Pete concluded his military career in 1988, returning to the place closest to his heart—Gulf Breeze.In the decades that followed, Pete built a fulfilling life surrounded by family, friends, and continued travel. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed hiking, sailing, surfing, shooting, and maintaining physical fitness. He earned a black belt in Taekwondo and had a deep appreciation for German automobiles. His creative spirit shone through his passions for photography, writing, and painting, and he found success as a businessman.Pete was a man who embraced life fully. He loved his home, good food, music, and above all, the people around him. He shared a special bond with his wife, Sarah, and took great joy in hosting gatherings that brought loved ones together.

To many, he was “Uncle Pete!”—the exclamation point capturing his lively, energetic personality and the warmth he brought into every room.To those closest to him, Pete was more than a relative—he was a mentor, a confidant, and a true friend. He inspired admiration from a young age and continued to offer wisdom and guidance throughout his life.Though his final years presented challenges, Pete faced them with strength and courage. He lived fully until the end, leaving on his own terms with the same resolve that defined his life.Pete’s legacy is one of adventure, service, creativity, and deep connection. He will be remembered for his humor, his generosity, and the countless memories he created with those he loved. His was a life well lived, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Pete is survived by his brother; Carter Bender Sr.; his nephew, Carter Bender Jr.; his niece, Alva Baker; and great nephews, Carter, Noah, Sam & Brody; and a host of family and friends.

Services were private.

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