Angela Bendorf Obituary

Angela C. Bendorf
August 4, 1929 – July 28, 2025

It is with profound sadness that the Bendorf family announces the passing of its beloved matriarch, Angela C. Bendorf, on July 28, 2025, in Fairfax, Virginia, at the age of 95. Angela lived a life of love, faith, kindness, and unwavering devotion to her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose absence leaves a deep and lasting void in our hearts.
Angela is survived by her loving husband of 73 years, Harry Bendorf, and her devoted children: Lisa Havard (Mark), Mark, Peter (Karen), and Andrea Ashton (Bill). She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren: Lauren Crowley (Nick), Kyle, Erin, Sophia, Will, Jake, Zach, and Nick, as well as her treasured great-grandchildren, Casey and Nora.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Ross J. Anzalone and Josephine Anzalone, and her siblings, Rose (Ray), Gracie (Eugene), and Rossie Anzalone.
Angela was born on August 4, 1929, in Chicago, Illinois. As a young girl, she enjoyed school, church, sports, the outdoors, and close friendships. At home, she and her sisters helped their mother with the day-to-day responsibilities of running a household, forming the foundation of her lifelong commitment to family. She attended Carl Schurz High School and later graduated from Mundelein College in May 1952.
During her senior year, while on fall break in Miami, Angela met a young Air Force Second Lieutenant, Harry Bendorf, who was training at Bartow Air Base in Florida. After a magical weekend, they felt an undeniable connection and kept in touch through letters, phone calls, and brief visits. Their love quickly deepened, and they were married in June 1952, shortly after Angela's graduation. Their 73-year marriage was a testament to love, loyalty, and enduring partnership.
Together, Angela and Harry raised four children, and shared their love with eight grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren – instilling in them the values of faith, honesty, kindness, and hard work.
Angela faithfully supported Harry through his 30-year career in the United States Air Force. Their assignments took them across the country, including Ellington AFB (TX), Randolph AFB (TX), Walker AFB (NM), Pease AFB (NH), Offutt AFB (NE), and finally the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., where Harry retired as a Brigadier General in 1981.
After settling in Virginia, Angela began her teaching career in the Fairfax County Public School System, where she taught elementary school for 25 years. Known for balancing high expectations with warmth and compassion, she touched countless young lives. Former students often reflect, "Mrs. Bendorf was the best teacher I ever had."
With Harry frequently deployed to far-off places, Angela managed their busy household with strength, consistency, and love, raising four energetic children, working full-time, and maintaining a welcoming and immaculate home.
Angela and Harry shared a love of travel, especially to Europe, where they enjoyed the history, diverse cultures, and regional cuisine. They enjoyed Windstar Cruises, with their intimate ships and scenic destinations. Angela always documented their adventures with her trusty point-and-shoot camera, often focusing on blooming flowers and grand Catholic churches.
Her deep Catholic faith was a guiding force throughout her life. A devout member of Our Lady of Good Counsel, Angela taught Sunday School and volunteered in numerous outreach programs, including the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA), which welcomes adults into the Catholic Church. Her faith was evident not only in her service but in her spirit and steadfast values.
Angela will be remembered for her warmth, her radiant smile, and the unconditional love she poured into her family. Her legacy lives on in the family she raised, and the lives she touched through her faith and kindness.
Though we grieve deeply, we take comfort in knowing Angela is at peace, embraced by the love of her Creator. Her spirit remains with us, and her memory will forever live on in our hearts and the generations to come.
We are forever grateful for the gift of her life and the blessing of her love.

A Funeral Mass celebrating Angela's life will be held on August 11 at Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church in Vienna, VA. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by the Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM. A luncheon will take place at the church immediately afterward, beginning at 12:00 PM. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend and honor her remarkable life.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Angela's memory to: OLGC Catholic Church – https://membership.faithdirect.net/givenow/VA875/40040 The Alzheimer's Association – https://www.alz.org/
A Graveside service will take place at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.