He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Elizabeth “Betty” Shutrop, and his daughter, Sandra “Sandy” Brown.
Ben was born on March 13, 1933, to Idella and George Shutrop in Chanhassen, Minnesota. He was especially proud to be the only member of his family to graduate from high school, earning his diploma in 1951. He went on to serve his country in the United States Army from June 1954 to June 1956, attaining the rank of Private First Class.
On September 6, 1958, Ben married the love of his life, Elizabeth “Betty” Campbell. Together, they built a life rooted in hard work, family, and perseverance. Ben was an entrepreneur and dedicated businessman, owning and operating Fridley Sanitation before becoming a manager with BFI. During this time, he also owned the Anoka and Spring Lake Park Spur gas stations. Later, he purchased and ran the Coon Rapids and Blaine Mister Donut locations.
While building his businesses, Ben and Betty raised eight children: Thomas (Wendy), Sandra “Sandy” Brown (Jeff), Mary Shutrop, Paul (Shelly), John (Mary), Nancy Kehn, Darlene Kompelien (Justin), and Jimmy (Karen). Ben was also a proud grandfather to 17 grandchildren and a great-grandfather to 17 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense joy.
Ben had a deep appreciation for the outdoors. His passions included fishing, woodworking, and spending time with his John Deere tractors. He especially enjoyed playing cards with his family. Known for his sarcastic humor, gentle demeanor, and unwavering love for his family, Ben was patient with his grandchildren and touched the lives of all who knew him.
He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and everyone fortunate enough to have known him.
An evening visitation will be held at Gearhart Anoka Funeral Home, located at 552 East River Road, Anoka, MN 55303, on December 18, 2025, from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
A time for memory sharing will be at 7:00 pm.
Family and friends are invited to wear Minnesota Vikings or Minnesota Twins apparel in honor of Ben.
A visitation is scheduled at St. Stephen's Catholic Church, 525 Jackson St, Anoka, MN 55303, on December 19, 2025, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by a funeral service at the same location at 11:00 am. Luncheon to follow the service for invited guests.
The committal service will take place at Calvary Cemetery in Anoka, MN.
Ben’s legacy of love, hard work, and devotion to family will live on in all who were blessed to know him.
In lieu of flowers: we would like the donations to go to Calvary Cemetery in Anoka, in care of St. Stephen's Catholic Church, 525 Jackson Street, Anoka, MN, 55303.
