It is with deep sorrow and fond remembrance that we announce the Lord's calling of Benjamin Clifford Lewis, age 66, on February 3, 2025. He was called home and raised peacefully, comforted by people who love him.

Benjamin, known to all who loved him as "Ben," "Benji" or "Benj," was born on October 6, 1958, in Grand Rapids, MN to Ben and Cecelia "Dude" Lewis. Throughout his life, he demonstrated an unwavering commitment to family, friends, and his passions. Whether working tirelessly or enjoying the simple pleasures of life in his chair hand in hand with the love of his life, Ben's big bear hug embrace, smile and distinct laughter left a permanent mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Benji's love for his family was immeasurable. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Jackie. They were married on May 26, 1984, and their bond was nothing short of extraordinary. Ben's commitment and love for her was the cornerstone of his existence, and their life together was filled with laughter, support, and adventure. Their connection was one of true partnership. They spent their time drinking coffee, watching Hallmark movies, crafting, baking, talking politics and religion and taking road trips to support the young people in their lives. Jackie was his number one reason for living.

Ben's heart was also filled with a fierce pride for his children, particularly his son, Christopher. One of his greatest joys was watching Chris race the Joker sprint car, his chair may now be empty but he will ride with Chris for eternity. This is a memory that will live on in the hearts of all who shared in that excitement with him. They enjoyed years of dirt track racing, Nascar trips, and motorcycles. If you know Chris, his dad's legacy has no choice but to continue on.

Benj was immensely proud of his daughter, Kayla, and their bond was nothing short of special. The two shared a closeness that was evident to all who witnessed their relationship. She was his angel, and he was her King. Ben found immense joy in watching Kayla grow into the strong, compassionate woman she is today. They spent their time drinking coffee in conversation about the latest and greatest TV shows and movies, their mutual love for food and desserts and would laugh uncontrollably at each other. They understood one another on a level only a Daddy's girl would ever understand.

Ben's pride in his family was mirrored in his deep affection for his grandchildren who lovingly called him Papa. Each of them held a special place in his heart, and he cherished every moment spent with them, always eager to hug them and make them laugh. They cherished his fondness of playing Santa Claus during the holidays. The twinkle in his eye, jolly spirit and warm heart brought joy to them, their friends and adults alike. His infectious laugh and kind soul embodied the very essence of the season of giving and came so naturally to him. His role as Santa was one of the highlights of his life.

Benji's love for motorcycles was another defining part of his legacy. Whether cruising on his Harley Davidson with his brother Tony or sharing the road with his father, Ben Sr., these rides were more than just trips—they were a deep, shared connection between generations. The sound of a Harley's engine was a familiar and cherished soundtrack to many of his happiest memories.

As a loving brother to Tony, Benj shared a deep connection with him, filled with years of memories and mutual respect. Together they spent time with their parents Ben Sr, and Dude going on lunch dates and road trips to Arkansas to visit family. Benji never missed the opportunity to search out the perfect rock for his collection and fell in love with the Grotto of the Redemption in Iowa, visiting it multiple times in his life.

Benji had an unmatched obsession for buying and building cars. This love started in 1974 with a white Ford Farline and included a signature "Benji" GTO in high school, a 1966 Chevy Impala that he built and made hundreds of memories with his son Chris and most recently a 2012, Grand Rapids orange, Chevy Camaro. Collecting Nascar diecast cars became a continued topic to bond over with his son and grandson. So when you see, as his grandkids would say, a "cool car" let Benji's memory wash over with the sound of its engine.

Ben attended school in Savage and Shakopee, MN, before graduating from Hill City High School. He later attended Dunwoody Institute, where he pursued his passion for hands-on work. His education led him to a 32-year career with ISD 318, where he retired in 2017 after forming lifelong friendships with his colleagues and mentoring many college students through the work-study program he led. He was recently honored by the Grand Rapids Area Football Association for his service as a groundskeeper, and his utmost pride and conviction for the kids and community, as one of their "Lead Blockers." Ben spent thousands of hours on the northern MN roads, in every kind of weather, every Wednesday and Saturday for 33 years delivering the local Herald Review & Manneys Shopper newspapers. His time spent in the car gave him a place to reflect, listen to loud music and on occasion connect with his son, daughter or brother as his selected passenger. His dedication to his work will always be deeply respected.

Our Benj is not just defined by his love for his family, but also by his kindness, integrity, and ability to brighten the lives of others. His genuine nature, wit, and thoughtfulness were qualities that drew people to him. He was an easygoing, happy man who radiated positivity and joy. He was a man with a natural gift for gab. His ability to engage in conversation and make people laugh through his stories made everyone feel welcome and accepted. Whether he was chatting with a stranger, a colleague, or a lifelong friend, Ben always made time to hear their stories and share in a laugh. He will live on in the hearts of his wife, children, grandchildren, and all who had the honor of knowing him. His presence has left behind a profound impact on everyone he met.

Ben is survived by his loving wife, Jackie; his son, Chris (Meghann; children, Maia, Charlea and Luciana); his daughter Kayla (Josh; children, Brycen, and Emery); parents, Ben and Cecelia "Dude"; his brother, Tony (Victoria; children, Trevor (Kelly), Micah (Steph), Brady); aunts and uncles, Dorothy & Clarence, Shirley, Maxine & Billy, Jimmy, Penny, Mickey & Sue, Dennis & Marsha; cousins, Terri, Susan, Karen, Bill, Donny, Randy, Jeff, Debbie, Sherri, Pam, Hope, Christopher, Tony and Chris; special friends, Rick, Dick, Darryl and Rob; and countless nieces, nephews and friends who were blessed by his presence and added so much joy to his life.

Ben was preceded in death by maternal grandparents, Gordon & Mildred Chidester; paternal grandparents, Clifford Lysle & Lola Jewel Lewis; aunts & uncles, Bob, Ed, Milly, Earl, Robert & Amy, Audrey "Jean" & Sonny, Carole & Arlis, Paul & Wanda, Gerald & Barbara, Harry & Louise; cousins, Brian, Jimmy, Arlis, Perry and Cindy.

We invite you all to celebrate this amazing man on Saturday, February 15th, 2025, at Grace Bible Chapel, 2452 Co. Rd. 76, Grand Rapids, MN with visitation beginning at 4:00 PM and a funeral service at 5:00 PM with hot dinner and dessert to follow at the church.

Ride free, Pops, and know that your legacy, love, laughter and life well lived will live on in the countless lives you've touched. You will never be forgotten. Carpe diem!