Tim Bender (3)

Tim Bender was the unofficial 5th member of the band For Squirrels. He had been working with them since their self-released album Baypath Rd, and served as their tour manager during their Example tour. On September 8th 1995 the band's van blew it's right rear tire, causing the van to roll, killing the lead singer Jack Vigliatura, bassist Bill White, and Tim. He was just 23. Normally on their long drives between gigs everyone would rotate positions in the van. However, Tim chose not to swap spots with Travis who was asleep so that he could get some more rest, "He was just being selfless as usual," Travis said. In 2009, on September 13th, Tim’s sister-in-law Marie Bender posted this on the For Squirrels message board, “I enjoyed Baypath Road out at Tim's Place on Monday. It is always a joy to read how others remember our three loved ones. Enjoyed hearing about little Willy and love 3. Our grandkids all know their Uncle Tim. Soren (almost 10) went home with Tim's Indiana Jones Hat and whip this summer. Thanks all of you out there on the internet for sharing the joy of their lives.” At his grave, there is a granite bench with the name Bender carved into it, and a University of Florida Gators flag is there, as well as his Alumni plate.