Elmer August Bendt, son George and Ida (Goeske) Bendt, was born February 10, 1912 in Luverne, Minnesota, where he was baptized on July 7, 1912 by Reverend E. C. Rethmann. He grew up in Grant County, where he attended country school. On June 13, 1939, he was united in marriage to Ella Bendt in Sisseton, South Dakota. The couple farmed in Swift, Stevens and Grant Counties. In the mid 1960's, they moved into Hancock and worked for Rainbow Rafters.
Elmer enjoyed hunting, fishing and traveling. He could play the accordion by ear and loved listening to music. Elmer and Ella celebrated their 67th wedding anniversary this last June
Elmer died on Thursday, September 28, 2006 at West Wind Village in Morris, having lived to reach the age of 94 years.
He is survived by his wife: Ella Bendt of Morris; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers and five sisters.
Pallbearers for the service are: George Bendt, Alden Bendt, James Eggum, Carrol Larson, Donald Larson, Robert Johnson, Larry Perseke and Paul Gerstner.