Key Takeaways
- His daughter, India Bender, announced the news of her father Tony’s passing on Facebook.
- He was remembered for his sharp humour, compassionate nature, and engaging writing style.
- He has been a columnist at Forum Communications Company since 2019, known for political satire.
Tony Bender, known for his versatility in media and writing, passed away on November 24, 2024, with no cause of d*ath shared.
His daughter, India Bender, announced the heartbreaking news on Facebook in a post that read:
The announcement was met with an outpouring of condolences and tributes from friends, fans, and followers. One comment read:
India, we are so sorry for your loss. Our family is saying prayers for you and your brother as you navigate this sad and difficult time. Love and prayers.
Via Facebook
Another shared:
Deepest sympathies from my family to yours. May you find peace and comfort in the days ahead. The world has lost a good man.
Via Facebook
A third expressed disbelief:
What??!! No! I’m so very sorry India and Dylan!!! This is so sad and sudden. My heart breaks for you two and your family!!
Via Facebook
Tony’s passing resonated deeply with his readers and fans, many of whom admired his sharp wit and profound writing.
One fan wrote:
Tonight, I, And thousands of others, mourn the loss of one of our amazing progressive, common Sense, writers, Tony J Bender . I enjoyed his columns for years, and was so ecstatic when accepted my FB friendship…. And responded if I asked him questions on certain things. I Just knew he was such a genuine, wonderful man. So sad I never met him in person. I know he’s touched many many lives through his writings and career. Obviously including mine. Prayers for his children, Dylan and India. May he write us great new articles, opinion columns, and whatever….from above! May you now WIP…”Write in Peace”, Tony. Thank You for all you gave… All your written pieces for our area and our country and all!!
Via Facebook
Another wrote:
A third fan captured his essence by writing:
RIP Tony Bender. Whose wit, writing , and perspective kept us smiling and engaged.
Via Facebook
Tony’s d*ath leaves a void in the world of storytelling, humour, and thoughtful commentary.
His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the timeless pieces he created.
Tony Bender Leaves Behind a Lasting Legacy in Media
Tony Bender built an impressive career spanning decades, showcasing his versatility as a writer and media professional.
Before his passing, he was a Partner and Developer at Darwin Cable Company from July 2013, where he worked to create and market high-quality audio cables.
He also served as a columnist at Forum Communications Company since July 2019, known for his insightful political commentary and sharp satire.
As President and CEO of Redhead Publishing, a position he held since 1998, he revitalized small-town newspapers like the Ashley Tribune by embracing online expansions and creating award-winning specialty publications.
His journey as a columnist began in 1991, contributing human-interest pieces to numerous newspapers and earning recognition early on from the South Dakota Newspaper Association.
Tony’s tenure as news director at Dickson Media further showcased his leadership, where he successfully rescued struggling publications and fostered meaningful community connections.
His time at the Williston Daily Herald was formative, sharpening his skills in covering breaking news and feature stories under the pressure of daily deadlines.
Tony’s dynamic radio career began in 1977 as an on-air personality at KKAA Radio in Aberdeen, South Dakota.
He became a household name at KTKU in Alaska, where his creative on-air personas won the hearts of listeners.
Demonstrating his leadership, he anchored critical Hurricane Hugo coverage at WBPR in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, providing vital information during a crisis.
As a morning news anchor at KYYY in Bismarck, he honed his journalistic skills despite finding the role mismatched to his strengths.
Tony thrived in Denver’s radio scene, contributing to iconic stations like 95 KIMN and 630 KHOW, juggling diverse shifts and producing engaging remote broadcasts.
His early experiences at KSDN and KQDJ helped him build a solid foundation for the storytelling and broadcasting excellence that became his hallmark.
Tony Bender’s legacy shows his passion for communication, adaptability, and dedication, making his career a journey of connection, creativity, and lasting inspiration.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Tony lost a beloved sibling, her sister, in October 2024.
- He was an avid supporter of the Miami Dolphins.
