From "A Biographical and Historical Record of Adams and Wells Counties" published in 1887.

Jonathan Bender, farmer and stockraiser, Harrison Township, was born in Rock Creek Township, Wells County, October 21, 1854, youngest son of John and Barbara (Mast) Bender. The father was a native of Lebanon County, Pennsylvania of John Bender, also a native of Pennsylvania, and of German Ancestry. The mother was born in Pennsylvania and was also married in that state in 1850. They removed to this (Wells Countyy where Mr. Bender purchased an improved farm in Rock Creek Township. The first year he followed milling and the next year he followed teaming. The then engaged in farming until 1879, when he removed to Bluffton, and in July of that year the father died. They were the parents of eleven children, six of whom are living (in 1887).. The mother is still living (in 1887) in Bluffton, and is a devoted member of the Lutheran Church. Politically, Mr. Bender was a Democrat. Our subject was reared on a farm and remained with his parents until he was of age. He was married August 12, 1875 to Miss Amanda E. Staver, daughter of Jonathan and Minerva (Hoops) Staver, who came from Ohio, and (were) of German ancestry. Mrs. Bender was born in Rock Creek Township, this county. After their marriage they rented a farm until 1881, when he purchased his present farm containing eighty acres of improved land, on section 6, Harrison Township. Mr. And Mrs. Bender have had four children - Bessie Zenora, Lawrence L., Virgie O., and Advantic N., who died at the age of two years. Mr. Bender is a member of the Christian church, and Mrs. Bender of the Lutheran Church. Politically, he is a Democrat.