Lillian M. Bendzans, 88, of Willimantic, widow of Mickey Merchant and Stanley Bendzans, died peacefully, surrounded by her family Thursday December 12, 2002 at the Windham Hospital. She was born August 9, 1914 in Skowhegan, Maine, the daughter of Alvin and Minnie (Goodrich) Glidden and has lived in the Windham area most of her life. She is survived by 7 children, Donald Merchant of South Windham, Dennis Merchant of North Windham, Stanley Bendzans of Arvada, CO, Mitchell Bendzans of Norton, MA, Joyce Brown of Beverly Hill, FL, Laurel Lesniak of North Windham, Robin Bendzans of Willimantic, 2 sisters, Cecelia and Doris, a brother, Morris, 17 grandchildren, 29 great grandchildren, 3 great great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by 4 brothers and 4 sisters, Ralph, Phil, Bobby and Rex, Edna, Joan, Mildred and Faith. Her family will receive friends at the Potter Funeral Home, 456 Jackson St. (Rte. 195) Willimantic on Monday from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Her funeral service will be Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home with the reverend Dr. Bruce Johnson officiating. Burial will follow in Nathan Hale Cemetery, Coventry. Please visit
www.potterfh.com
for directions and online registry.