Peggy Lee Bender (Cluphf) was a beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother and cherished friend to many. She was born in Seattle and grew up on her family’s dairy farm in Lake Stevens, Washington — a childhood that nurtured her lifelong connection to animals, agriculture and community.
She proudly served her country in the United States Navy, reflecting a commitment to service that continued throughout her life.
Her professional journey was as diverse as it was meaningful. Peggy worked as a certified nursing assistant in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada; served as special education faculty for the Chinle Unified School District in Arizona; and worked as a rabies and biological research technician with USDA Wildlife Services. Each role reflected her compassion, intelligence and dedication to helping both people and animals.
Peggy was deeply engaged in civic and professional organizations, including Future Farmers of America, the Arizona Animal Control Association and the National Animal Care and Control Association, where she served as an officer for the Arizona chapter. She was also an organ and tissue donor, a testament to her giving spirit even at life’s end.
Peggy poured her heart into the communities she served, especially on the Navajo Nation, where she lived and worked for more than 27 years. She helped start a Special Arizona Cooperative Extension Service 4-H “Hike and Bike” club focused on diabetes prevention, supported Navajo Nation 4-H youth camps and cherished the Diné land, people, students and 4-H families who became such an important part of her life.
She also attended opening day at Disneyland on July 17, 1955, and was recognized on her 60th birthday for being among the park’s first-day guests. Living on Prince Edward Island — the beloved setting of “Anne of Green Gables” — delighted her imagination and sense of adventure.
Peggy will be remembered for her kindness, humor, service to others and boundless love.
