Benjamin Levi "Ben" Walters

Ben was born on December 5, 1980, in Sikeston, Missouri. He attended Sikeston schools as a child and later Blue Valley schools as a teen. He graduated from Sikeston Senior High School in 1999 and went on to earn his Bachelor of Arts in Science from American Military University.

From an early age, Ben was competitive, driven, and deeply committed. He loved sports and played soccer, baseball, basketball, and football. He earned many trophies and accolades throughout his youth and, at 15 years old, won 2nd place in the Missouri State Punt, Pass, and Kick competition. His love of athletics extended into adulthood, where he played soccer in a community league in Colorado. Ben was also an avid Chiefs fan!

His passion for fitness continued throughout his life. Ben pursued becoming a CrossFit trainer and judge, combining his love of athleticism with his desire to help others become the healthiest and strongest version of themselves. Physical discipline was never just about performance for Ben - it was about stewardship, resilience, and encouraging others to push beyond what they thought possible.

Ben honorably served his country for nine years in the United States Armed Forces. He served first in the United States Navy as a Navy Corpsman, then as a combat medic in the United States Marine Corps and concluded his military career in the United States Army. Before being honorably discharged he attained the rank of Sergeant E5.

Throughout his entire military career, Ben served in a medical capacity. Whether in structured military environments or uncertain field conditions, he dedicated himself to caring for others. His service was marked not only by professional excellence but by compassion.

He was decorated with numerous medals, badges, citations, and campaign ribbons, including:

· National Defense Service Medal

· Combat Action Ribbon

· Good Conduct Medal

· Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal

· Navy Good Conduct Medal

· United States Navy Commendation

· USMC Presidential Unit Citation (PUC)

· Global War on Terrorism Service Medal

· Army Service Ribbon

· Armed Forces Reserve Medal with “M” Device

These honors reflect his bravery, discipline, and unwavering dedication to those he served alongside.

But Ben’s calling as a medic did not end when he removed the uniform. When living in Los Angeles, he routinely carried his medical bag with him in his vehicle, prepared at any moment to stop and assist if someone in traffic required emergency care until an ambulance could arrive. That was simply who he was - always ready, always willing.

Ben was an avid traveler who explored much of the United States and the world. He loved both the mountains and the beaches and often talked about future adventures with family and friends. Ben was an avid supporter of the Wounded Warrior project. He served on multiple mission teams to Africa as a medic, helping care for children in orphanages. He loved kids deeply and was a favorite among his nieces and nephews. Ben was also known for his humor and infectious personality. He loved to dance, laugh, and spend time with friends and family.

In the summer of 2025, Ben was diagnosed with stage 4 brain cancer. In the fall of that same year, he reached out to The Clash of the Kingdoms Ministry asking for prayer for healing. What began as a simple request grew into a deep brotherhood. Ben became an integral part of the community, faithfully attending Zoom training sessions, Bible studies, Sunday online church, and men’s group gatherings.

His faith during this season was extraordinary. He carried an unwavering confidence that God would heal him. Yet even more remarkable than his physical battle was the transformation of his inner man. As he fixed his eyes on Jesus, those around him witnessed him grow in peace, boldness, and love. He radiated hope in the midst of immense adversity. His testimony moved many hearts, and his courage, humility, and steadfast faith will not be forgotten.

Most of all, he loved his girls, he is so proud of who they are and what they have become. Ben is survived by his daughters, Audrey Selvig (Luke) and Katelyn Clark; his parents, Robert Walters and Bill and Vicki Deane; his siblings, Sarah Selleck (Richard), Kristin Tarwater (Kurt), Leah Ruchotzke (Heath), Jennifer Baker (Chris), Lauren McGill (Heath), Will Deane (Amber), and Clay Deane (Sara Beth); and many cousins and extended family members and friends who loved him deeply. Among those who will miss him deeply are his cherished dogs Chief and Viking, who were a constant source of comfort and joy for Ben.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Discover Life Church in Sikeston, Missouri, followed by a funeral service from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. There will be a private family service with military honors at Bloomfield Veterans Cemetery.

Guests are invited to wear service member memorabilia, American flag apparel, patriotic attire, or Chiefs gear in honor of Ben’s memory.

Ben’s life was marked by service, sacrifice, discipline, adventure, humor, and unshakable faith. He stood ready - as a soldier, medic, athlete, son, father, brother, and friend. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

In Lieu of Flowers

In honor of Ben's life, faith, and unwavering love for both his country and his Lord, the family invites you to consider making a donation in his memory.

Ben carried deep compassion for those who have served and sacrificed. In tribute to that heart, donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project support.woundedwarriorproject.com, supporting wounded veterans and their families.

Those who would like to honor Ben’s spiritual legacy and the community that stood with him in prayer, fellowship, and brotherhood may also give to Clash of the Kingdoms clashofthekingdoms.com, the ministry that became a cherished part of his life and faith journey.

More than anything, Ben would want his life to point others to Jesus. The greatest way to honor him is to walk boldly in faith, love deeply, and remain steadfast in hope – just as he did.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.nunneleefuneralchapel.com for the Walters family.