Having grown up on a dairy farm in rural Vermont, Ben was sure that ‘snow’ was a curse word. Having served in Korea, Vietnam, and other international locations, he returned to the US and finished service to his country. While stateside, he developed and tested next-gen weapons at Eglin Airforce base (ever heard of an attack drone or a GPS-guided bomb?). A 50-year member of the American Legion and animal lover, Ben enjoyed working with his hands, solving problems, and helping others. After he was done ‘inventing things’ for the day, you would likely find him at the Legion, not just talking over the day's news but solving the world's problems with his buddies.
Ben was preceded in death by three brothers, two sisters, and his wife of 53 years (Marge). He is survived by his brothers, Reg, Ed, Phonce; his son, Jay (the best one ever if you ever asked him), his wife, and their three children.
Ben’s life will be celebrated at 3 PM (15:00) on August 13th, 2023, at American Legion Post 235 in Fort Walton Beach, FL. Friends are welcome and encouraged to attend.
Instead of flowers, please consider donating to the American Legion Post 235 (850-243-0221 or https://www.floridalegion.org/findpost/western-area/district-1/post-235/). If four-legged furry friends are more your thing, please consider donating to the Emerald Coast Animal Hospital (850-243-5080 or https://emeraldcoastanimalhospital.com).
