With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Margaret “Rachel” Bendorf, a cherished mother, daughter, sister, niece, cousin and friend. Rachel left this world far too soon, at the age of 59, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. She was surrounded by love and family, just as she wanted, and leaves a legacy of courage, resilience, and unwavering love.
Rachel fiercely dedicated her life to her loved ones; when she was with you, she was with you. As a mother, she loved her children unconditionally; nurturing their dreams, supporting them in every endeavor, and instilling in them the tools they would need to succeed. Rachel was a truth teller, and no one was immune from it; after all, it was her love language.
Rachel was more than family—she was a true friend to many. Her life was marked by generosity that extended beyond her inner circle. Rachel’s career as an RN and, later in life, as a yoga instructor reflected her commitment to helping others heal and find comfort, even in the most challenging moments. Her light touched countless lives, creating bonds that will last far beyond her time with us.
Rachel loved the outdoors and was most happy being close to nature. She was a lover of animals and had a profound connection to the universe. Her faith in the divine and belief in the interconnectivity of human souls were unfaltering, and she held close to the belief that life was absorbed slowly and practiced one day at a time.
Rachel’s legacy is one of strength, grace, and love. She faced her illness with courage and dignity, reminding us all of the power of faith and the importance of being in the present moment. Though her body has left us, her spirit remains woven into the fabric of our lives. We will carry her memory in our hearts, honoring her by living with the same steadfastness and strength she embodied.
Rachel is survived by her beloved children Dalton, Giavonee, and Carlee Aversa; her parents Margaret (Mueller) Bendorf and Frank Bendorf; her siblings Maria (Bob) Fisher and Lisa Bendorf; her nephew Dominic Chiro; and an expansive family, both born and chosen; and last by not least, her most faithful companion Malachai, an ever loyal and sometimes neurotic Husky Standard Poodle mix. Rachel is also survived by many friends and all those whose lives she enriched.
If you pay close enough attention, you will hear her in your favorite songs, see her shine in the hues of sunset and feel her in the air around you, as she will never be too far from reach. Though our hearts ache, we find comfort in knowing she is at peace.
A Celebration of Life will be held in Rachel’s honor.
Saturday, November 16, 2024
10:00 am
The Norcross- McLaughlin Dell
1214 S. Park Avenue
Haddon Heights, NJ 08035
A celebration of life is about the joy of having known Rachel, not the sadness of losing her. Please feel free to share stories of your time with Rachel. It is Rachel’s request to remember her as she lived, not as she died. Please do not wear black.
The celebration will take place outdoors, so please be prepared for the conditions.
Arrangements by the FOSTER-WARNE FUNERAL HOME, Audubon and Collingswood, NJ.
