Gary Pender

Gary Bruce Pender, 61, of Jackson passed away Saturday, March 21, 2020, at Life Care Center in Cape Girardeau.

He was born Nov. 25, 1958, in Cape Girardeau, son of Robert H. and Anna Marie Graham Pender. Gary married Brenda Brotherton on Dec. 22, 1995.

Gary was a graduate of Cape Central High School in Cape Girardeau. He served in the U.S. Army from 1979 through 1981. He had previously worked for City of Cape Girardeau Public Works Department and as a chief engineer for Lawson and Lawson Towing, American Commercial Barge Lines and Ingram Barge. He retired in 2017 due to failing health. He enjoyed hunting, camping, bowling, playing cards and collecting Lionel Trains. He also enjoyed just being around people, laughing and having a good time.

Loving survivors include his wife, Brenda, of 24 years; daughter, Jessica Pender of Cape Girardeau; stepdaughters, Erica (Michael) Graff of St. Peters, Missouri, and Lori Quade of Jackson; sister, Brenda K. Rose of Cape Girardeau; stepfather, Leo Pender of Fort Myers, Florida; and grandchildren, Braden and Violet Graff and Addyson and Natalie Petzoldt. Also surviving are several nieces, nephews, and many caring friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Jeremy Lee Pender; and sister, Deborah Ann Pender Burton.

Due to current health concerns and restrictions that have been mandated, a private funeral service will be held for the immediate family.

A private Interment will follow in Russell Heights Cemetery in Jackson.

Your efforts to support the family are appreciated. A condolence message may be sent to the family by visiting www.mccombsfuneralhome.com. For those who desire to send a sympathy card, please address to Brenda Pender, c/o McCombs Funeral Home, 640 W. Independence St., Jackson, MO 63755.

Memorial contributions may be given to Humane Society of Southeast Missouri or to Emanuel United Church of Christ.