Audrey A. Bendzick, age 84, of New Prague, died peacefully, surrounded by her family on Saturday, October 28, 2017, at her home. Audrey was born on December 31, 1932, in Waconia, MN to John and Helen (Thurk) Woerdehoff. The family moved to Long Prairie and finally to Jordan, where Audrey graduated from high school. She married Ervin J. Bendzick at St. John’s Catholic Church in Jordan on November 6, 1951. Her greatest accomplishment was being a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and homemaker. She also waitressed and served as nanny for the Wampach family at Wampach’s Restaurant in Shakopee.
Audrey always said, “I have my 3 F’s: Faith, Family, & Friends.” Her faith showed in her dedication to praying the daily rosary and often more than one. She was a dedicated member of St. Wenceslaus and belonged to CCW, Mission Sewing, and volunteered at St. Wenceslaus School. She was noted for her homemade bread, cinnamon rolls, and especially for her cookies, loved by her grandchildren, no matter what kind. She loved cards, “word-find” puzzles, and bird-watching. Audrey embroidered countless dish towels and her work was so exquisite that the back side looked as flawless as the front side. She loved spending time with her family and friends and took particular interest in the activities of her grandchildren. Finally, Audrey kept a daily journal for the past 40 years, one for the weather and one for her personal notes.
Audrey is survived by her children, Steve (& Theresa) Bendzick of St. Peters, MO, Mary Bendzick of New Prague, Joe Bendzick of Euless, TX, Carol (& Jim) Weiers of Union Hill, Nancy (& Chris) Hertaus of Veseli, Jim Bendzick (& Fiance, Debbie Ann Reopelle) of New Prague, John (& Rene) Bendzick of New Prague; grandchildren, Chris, Adam, Greg, Tommy, Danny, Mark, Tyler, Jessica, Kristy, Erik Bendzick, Nik Madison, Sarah, Brad Weiers; great-grandchildren, Brody, Bella, Beau, Miikka, Weston, Brady, Brenna, Callum Bendzick, Kelson (KJ) Weiers. Sister, Barb Ewald of Minnetonka. She is preceded in death by her husband, Ervin, on December 16, 2003; parents; sisters, Mary Louise Theis, Carol Moon.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, November 1, 2017, at 10 AM at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church with Father Dave Barrett officiating. Visitation will take place Tuesday from 4-8 PM and Wednesday morning from 7:30 – 9:30 at Bruzek Funeral Home. Burial will occur at St. Wenceslaus Cemetery followed by lunch at the KC Hall. Memorials preferred in lieu of flowers to St. Wenceslaus Church or St. Wenceslaus School.
