MARENGO — Benjamin R. Koelper, 31, of Marengo (Riley Township), went to be with his beloved Grandma Mouse in heaven on Friday, Dec. 15, 2017. He was born Feb. 27, 1986 in Arlington Heights, the son of Darrell and Carmen Koelper.
Ben is survived by his parents and brother, Josh and his wife Anna. He was “Uncle Ben” to Leah, Gunnar and Gage, all of Marengo. Ben is also survived by his maternal grandfather, Donald Meiners of Colfax, and paternal grandmother, Joan Koelper of Arlington Heights. All of his aunts and uncles adored Ben and he loved them dearly. Ben leaves behind many beloved “Cuzos.”
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Priscilla (Grandma Mouse) and his paternal grandfather, Delbert (Pa).
Ben was a graduate of Riley School and Marengo Community High School. He enjoyed being a counselor and camper at Wal Camp, working with kids at Little Blessings Preschool at St. John’s, and delivering for Joe, Dickey, and Sponge. Ben also worked for Tri-Star Metals and Marengo Signs. Ben worked in the kitchen at The Rack in Rochelle, making countless friends and connections in the Rochelle community. Ben was currently an employee of Heels and Hard Hats of Byron, delivering safety equipment to NPL. Ben enjoyed his job, using his personality and laid-back attitude to make sure the NPL crews were properly equipped. He always was quick to lend a hand to his dad in the shop or on a jobsite with Koelper Golf Course Construction.
Ben’s infectious smile and passion for people, relationships and the things he loved were his foundation. From his early days on, Ben’s life, enjoyments, and social media postings were all overwhelmingly filled with passion. His family, being an uncle, his home, his car, the search for the perfect tacos and barbeque, and music all were special to our Ben.
In 2013 Ben was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, a disease he passionately fought and was actively winning.
The Blackhawks were Ben’s world and he attended countless games with his parents and friends sitting in Section 330 row 4 seats 5 and 6. Ben would rarely not be talking or arguing sports or his dislike for current politics. Ben also loved the Fighting Illini and tailgating at Memorial Stadium. This was a tradition passed down from his central Illinois roots.
Ben loved his friends and they loved him. The countless words, visits, and postings from the Marengo, Riley Township, and Rochelle communities are evident of this.
Visitation will be from 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 21 until the service at 5 p.m. at St John’s Lutheran Church 6821 Main St., Union.
Memorials in Ben’s name may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).
Arrangements were made by Fredrick Funeral Home of Hampshire.