Benjamin David Rowbotham

Born on December 3, 1994, in Boise, Idaho, Ben was raised in Spokane, Washington. He was a man of strength, faith and deep compassion. Known as a true warrior who showed up for others without hesitation, he lived with quiet integrity, enjoying simple, meaningful things such as spending time with family and friends, fishing, physical fitness, getting his truck fixed up, helping at church and telling others about Jesus. He could light up a room with his smile and was always willing to lend a helping hand.

Ben’s faith in Christ was important to him and he would tell anyone about Jesus. He credited the Lord for freeing him from addiction and he lived clean, serving for many years as a professional painter and custodian at Garland Church. He also participated in a monthly outreach to people living on the streets, encouraging them to give their lives to Jesus to help them beat their drug addiction. While a momentary relapse into the terrors of fentanyl took his own life, this was no longer who he was. He lived free and his journey was a testament to perseverance, humility and a lasting impact on others.

Ben is survived by his loving mother, Angela Rowbotham; his birth mother Stacy Rice; his brother, Joshua Rowbotham; his sister, Hannah Rowbotham; his grandmother, Betty Blain; his uncle, Ed Blain (Laurie); his aunt, Mary Acquanita (Michael) and family and his niece Hayden Huston. He is preceded in death by his father, Kirk Rowbotham and his granddad, Frank Blain.

As we mourn the loss of Ben, we also celebrate the remarkable impact he had on our lives. He will be remembered for his unwavering love for Jesus, his dedication to his family, his strength in adversity and the kindness he showed so freely. His life, though far too short, was filled with purpose and meaning and his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7

A service to celebrate Ben’s life will be held at Garland Church (2011 W. Garland Avenue) on April 17 at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Garland Church.