Atlantic Beach, FL - Frederick P. (Poppy) Bender, 78, of Atlantic Beach, FL, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2025, surrounded by the love and presence of his family. Fred was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He was born in Lewisburg, PA on December 8, 1946, spent his childhood in Orwigsburg, PA and lived in Atlantic Beach, FL for the past 34 years. Fred had a lifelong passion for: sailing, woodworking, boat building, and playing his cello. He was a devoted animal lover, having shared his home and heart with many cherished pets over the years and a deep devotion to his family and career.

Fred was a proud graduate of Blue Mountain High School, where he was a talented athlete. He played quarterback for the football team and was also a skilled baseball player. He then went on to serve his country as a medic in the United States Army Reserve. When called to active duty, he served with compassion and integrity, putting the needs of others before his own.

Fred worked in sales and marketing with Medtronic for 30 years, where he was widely respected for his work ethic, commitment, and excellence. His achievements were recognized at the highest level with the prestigious President's Cup Award - A testament to the impact he made and the lives he touched throughout his professional journey. Fred was also a devoted member of Saint John's United Church of Christ in Orwigsburg, PA.

Fred was preceded in death by his mother, Joanna Boehmer Bender, his father, Frederick Bender, his brother Jeff Bender and his granddaughter Madeline Benton. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Susan Lupien Bender, daughters, Deborah Kennedy of Porto, Portugal, Amy Benton of Grosse Pointe Woods, MI, his son, Frank Bender of Green Cove Springs, FL and seven grandchildren, John Kennedy, Derek Kennedy, Abigail Benton, Nathan Benton, Amanda Gillespie, Emily Bender and Fred Bender. Also left behind are six precious great grandchildren, his sister Linda Fiscus, several nieces, nephews and his faithful furry companion, Bella.

A private service will be held by the family at a later date.

In Lieu of flowers the family request donations be sent to The American Cancer Society at donate.cancer.org,

The Jacksonville Humane Society at jacksonvillehumanesociety-bloom.kindful.com

or Community Hospice at communityhospice.com/foundation/memorial-giving/donation

Please visit his online tribute at www.quinn-shalz.com. Arrangements by Quinn Shalz Funeral Home, Jacksonville Beach, FL.