Gary Bruce Pender

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

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

Gary was a graduate of Cape Central High School in Cape Girardeau. He served in the United States Army 1979-1981. He had previously worked for the Public Works Department for the City of Cape Girardeau 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; two step daughters, Erica (Michael) Graff of St. Peters, and Lori Quade of Jackson; a sister, Brenda K. Rose of Cape Girardeau; a step-father, Leo Pender of Fort Myers, Florida; and four grandchildren, Braden and Violet Graff, Addyson and Natalie Petzoldt.

Also surviving are several nieces, nephews, and many caring friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a son Jeremy Lee Pender, and a 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 that 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 the Humane Society of Southeast Missouri or to Emanuel United Church of Christ.