Tehachapi News

Michael William Bendlin passed away at his home in Keene as the result of lung cancer. Mike was born in Santa Ana, CA and started his career in the restaurant business in San Clemente, CA. Through his hard work and willingness to assume responsibility, he was offered a managers position at Tiny Naylor’s in Westminster, CA in 1979 (age 32). A year later, he was offered the job of running the Ranch House and Farmers Table restaurants at the Grapevine and I-5. In 1990, Mike opened his own restaurant (the Village Grille) in Lancaster CA, followed by the Village Grill and Mountain Crossing restaurants in Tehachapi, Mike’s Roadhouse Cafés in Mojave and Kettleman City, and the Pedal Car restaurant in Bakersfield. Mike trained many of his employees to become managers, and gave several the opportunity to own their own businesses. Several years ago, Mike began selling his restaurants in preparation for retirement. Mike was a successful businessman who proved that with hard work and diligence doing what you love will bring you success, and he shared that philosophy with all who would listen.
Outside of work, Mike enjoyed camping, fishing, and the outdoors in general.  He loved trips to Vegas, Stateline, and Laughlin, was a regular purchaser of lottery scratchers, and enjoyed playing cards, as well as cruises and getaways. Mike’s favorite holiday was Christmas. He loved it when the whole family would come together. He was a very giving father and grandfather, and knowing he helped make everyone’s day warmed his heart. Most of Mike’s kids worked for him in his restaurants at some point in their lives, and all who did knew he expected more from them than anyone else.  He admitted that he was too hard on his kids, but he said he did it so they would learn to work and know how to work hard when they got out on their own. I’m sure all the kids would agree he did a great job. He always wanted the best for his family, and worked hard to provide for them. Mike will be loved and missed by his family and friends, his grandkids, who always brought a smile to his face, and especially by his loving wife, Teresa.
Mike was preceded in death by his father, August Samuel Bendlin. He is survived by his wife Teresa, sons Jason (Alexandra), Jeremy (Erma), and Mike Jr., (Angela) daughters Tanya (Brian), Tasha and Jaclyn (Jason), his mother ElWanda Francis (Carl), younger sister Cynthia, older brother Samuel (Rita), Aunt Alice and 10 grandchildren. A celebration of Mike’s life was held June 23, 2008. Those desiring to remember Michael Bendlin may do so by making donations to the American Cancer Society (www.main.acsevents.org/goto/MikeBendlin) or by mailing checks (indicate Mike Bendlin memorial) to the Odyssey Foundation (which contributes to non-profit organizations benefiting terminally ill patients and their families) 3701 Pegasus Dr #102, Bakersfield, CA 93308