The Bender family sign sits near the approach of the farmyard where RCMP continue to investigate the deaths of four people. (Gillian Massie/ 980 CJME)

By Gillian Massie/CKOM News Staff

Obituary reveals names of family who died in murder-suicide near Neudorf

Apr 4, 2024 | 11:32 AM

A private funeral is set for Friday for the family of four who died in a murder-suicide near Neudorf.

Outside of the farmyard, near the approach stands the “Bender’s” family farm sign, adorned on both sides with two buffalo and two pine trees.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Gary Clifford Bender born December 9 1957, his wife Joanne Lorene Bender born November 22 1965, and their two sons Andrew Gary Bender born December 11, 1989, and Cory James Bender born August 17, 1993,” the obituary read.

The obituary stated the family “passed away unexpectedly” on March 23.

On March 24, RCMP officers were conducting a wellness check when they found four dead people at the farmhouse.

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The RCMP later said the four people were members of the same family and comprised two parents and two siblings.

“Police are not seeking additional suspects in regards to this incident and we do not anticipate having further updates related to the investigation as no charges will be laid,” the RCMP said in the update.

While the Mounties didn’t release the names of the four who died at the farmhouse, they did include their ages.

The RCMP said the 34-year-old man died as a result of self-inflicted injuries while the other three were murdered. Andrew Bender was 34.

On Friday, a private funeral service is to be held for friends and family in Neudorf. Later in the day, a celebration of life open to the public will be held at the CN Community Centre in Melville. The service will take place from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

“In lieu of flowers, please consider sending a donation to Saskatchewan Mental Health Association or an addiction treatment centre of your choosing,” the obituary said.

On March 26, community members were shocked by the news of the deaths.

“Like I said to my husband when he read the scroll on the news, I thought, ‘Neudorf. That’s got to be Neudorf, Germany, not Neudorf, Saskatchewan,’ ” resident Amy Bryce said. “(It’s) shocking.”

A lone black RCMP cruiser blocked the approach to the farmhouse while the RCMP Major Crimes Unit continued to investigate.