Benjamin H. Worchel

Cpl. Benjamin H. Worchel passed away on February 6, 2002 at the age of 21 years old. Born in San Antonio, Texas on May 11, 1980, Benjamin began his life as a child of joy and laughter. He was raised in a loving Christian home in San Antonio and his generous and fun loving nature was evidenced early in life as he pursued team sports in soccer and team bowling. Later, at the age of 14, Benjamin fulfilled his promise to Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ by his Confirmation at Abiding Presence Lutheran Church. Benjamin was also an active member of his Christian Youth Group. The promises of his fine character blossomed during his participation in the Madison High School JROTC program and was evidenced by his high regard for his parents and sisters. Benjamin matured through the challenges he sought and goals he achieved in JROTC and by attaining his final rank of Lieutenant as a high school senior. He graduated from high school in June 1999 and immediately enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Because of his four years of superior service in JROTC and his achievements in boot camp, Benjamin graduated from Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, California with the distinction of Private First Class in October, 1999. Benjamin and his high school sweetheart, Amanda Vann, married on August 19, 2000 in Vista, California. At a time when the nation was grieving the September 11th terrorist attacks, Benjamin and Amanda gave their family and friends a special hope through the birth of their son Aleksander Worchel, born September 12, 2001. After the birth and Christening of their son, the Worchels returned to San Diego, where they were stationed at Camp Pendleton. In December 2001, Benjamin was promoted to the rank of Corporal. While out on a training mission last Wednesday night, Benjamin and two fellow Marines lost their lives. We are saddened by our loss and will miss Benjamin, but are comforted by our belief that he is with his Savior, Jesus Christ. Benjamin is survived by his beloved wife, Amanda Worchel; infant son, Aleksander Worchel; parents, Jerry and Kay Worchel; father and mother-in-law, John and Barbara Vann; his sister Gabriele Worchel; half-sisters, Deborah Krueger of Rapid City, South Dakota and Laura Beumer of Salt Lake City, Utah; grandparents, Harold and Florence Worchel,; grandmother, Louise Goba of La Crosse, Wisconsin; nieces, Tamra and Sarah Row, and Keogan and Lindsay Beumer; aunts, Susan Larson, Ann Golding, Patti Hanson, Joyce Goba, Judi Forcier, Wanda Short, and Gloria Williams; uncles, Miles Goba, Joseph Larson, Ladd Golding, and David Hanson; many cousins, friends and fellow Marines.