Obituary of Ben Anderson

Benjamin Clayton Anderson was born on Sunday October 11, 1931 in Fort St. John, BC. He was the 1st baby boy born in the Fort St. John hospital. He was the younger of two boys born to John James and Lila (Peace) Anderson. Ben went to elementary school in Fort St. John and spent a couple of years in high school in California, living with his Aunt Mabel & Uncle Chuck. In 1945 he moved with his family to mile 147 on the Alaska Highway. In 1947 Catherine went to work up the highway, met Ben and on December 27, 1952 they were married. This past December they celebrated their 58th anniversary. Ben and Catherine spent about 20 years up the Alaska Highway. They ran the lodge at 147 from the late 40's to early 60's. In 1963 their 1st daughter Pamela was born and then in 1965 Dianna was born. Ben was such a proud father and in later years proud grandfather as well. Ben was a welder and mechanic, if he couldn't fix it no one could. He retired from the department of highways after 25 years of service. He then enjoyed an additional 10 years with Borek Construction before officially retiring. Ben's favorite pastimes were fishing, golfing, and hockey. He also enjoyed time spent at his 2nd home in Osoyoos, during the past 20 years. He volunteered for 35 years as a timekeeper for the Sr. Canucks hockey team. He loved his hockey and once he retired he spent a great deal of his time watching hockey, especially the Sr. Canucks. Then as the years went on he was able to watch his grandchildren play, that was a big thrill for him. He was always at the arena smiling & visiting. Many people have a special place in their hearts for Ben; he was always generous, inventive, helpful and kind. We all relied on him because he was so capable and willing to help. Eulogy presented by Ben's niece Marilynne Poppe. Special memories presented by Jim Parker. Ben was predeceased by his parents: Jim & Lila Anderson, brother: Jimmy Anderson and his father & mother in-law Sephas & Gladys Harris. Ben is survived by his loving wife of 58 years; Catherine (Kay), daughter; Pam (Werner) Hass and their children Clayton & Connor, daughter; Dianna (Dean) Fortier and their children Daryss & Dillon. Ben passed away on Monday, January 17, 2011 in Dawson Creek at the age of 79 years. A memorial service was held on Saturday, January 22, 2011 at 2:00 pm at Reynars Funeral Home Chapel. Pauline Haycock officiated. Interment will be at a later date. For friends so wishing, donations may be made in memory of Ben to the Ryan Rowe Memorial fund Dawson Creek Minor Hockey Association (DCMHA) PO Box 1032 Dawson Creek BC V1G 4H9 Very Respectfully Reynars Funeral Home and Crematorium.