We created a GatheringUs memorial to celebrate the life of Benjamin Lee Parsons. Collecting your stories and memories here will offer us great comfort.
OBITUARY
Right now the words are so very hard to find to express this loss. Ben was pure sunshine. To know him was to love and be loved by him. His light lives on within and around all of us fortunate enough to know him. Ben died on Solstice in his sleep losing his battle with alcoholism.
For those wishing to contribute to funeral and memorial expenses:
Checks can be sent to:
The Parsons - 2239 N Farmers Block Rd. Allouez, MI... see more
Right now the words are so very hard to find to express this loss. Ben was pure sunshine. To know him was to love and be loved by him. His light lives on within and around all of us fortunate enough to know him. Ben died on Solstice in his sleep losing his battle with alcoholism.
For those wishing to contribute to funeral and memorial expenses:
Checks can be sent to:
The Parsons - 2239 N Farmers Block Rd. Allouez, MI 49805
Benny was one of the first people I met in the dorms, freshman year. He was a constant throughout my college years and even after graduation I was lucky enough to see him, every so often. Hoxeyville, farm block, Nate and Casey’s wedding... all... moreBenny was one of the first people I met in the dorms, freshman year. He was a constant throughout my college years and even after graduation I was lucky enough to see him, every so often. Hoxeyville, farm block, Nate and Casey’s wedding... all opportunities for the most wonderful Benny hug. He was a light I always looked forward to seeing. I am heartbroken at the idea of never getting excited to see him again. I’m forever grateful for meeting him, his friendship, him bringing my dear friend Nate into my life, the college and farm block memories and for all those wonderful Benny hugs. His energy, positivity and enormous heart will forever be remembered. less
Ben was a rare fellow who, when he ran into you and asked how you were, he truly cared and wanted to know how you were doing. He always greeted you with a big smile and made you feel like there was no one else he would rather be spending time with. His... moreBen was a rare fellow who, when he ran into you and asked how you were, he truly cared and wanted to know how you were doing. He always greeted you with a big smile and made you feel like there was no one else he would rather be spending time with. His kindness and genuine ability to care for others will live on in the many people who were fortunate enough to know him. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family and friends. less
My sincere condolences go out to the Parsons family. Just as everyone has mentioned, Ben was such a bright light and truly one of a kind. I met Ben in the dorms freshmen year at Western, “Ben UP” we always called him. Every time you saw him you were... moreMy sincere condolences go out to the Parsons family. Just as everyone has mentioned, Ben was such a bright light and truly one of a kind. I met Ben in the dorms freshmen year at Western, “Ben UP” we always called him. Every time you saw him you were greeted with a “heyyyy!!” and a big hug. I found this picture from when Ben hosted us at his house in Manistee. We had such an amazing weekend, canoeing all day and Ben playing guitar and singing by the camp fire at night. Praying for Ben’s loved ones and wishing you peace and comfort as you grieve. less
I was so sad to hear of my dear friend Ben Parsons passing before Christmas. The Parsons family is special and Ben shined bright because of that. I first met Ben at the Brethren school while I was recycling the school with a group of my special needs... moreI was so sad to hear of my dear friend Ben Parsons passing before Christmas. The Parsons family is special and Ben shined bright because of that. I first met Ben at the Brethren school while I was recycling the school with a group of my special needs students. Ben approached my group with a smile and we met for the first time. Ben made a difference in the lives of many youth and was well loved by everyone at the Brethren school.
We shared many great times and were roommates for almost two years. An early memory was the Packer SB in 2011. Going to FBF for the first time with Ben was a warm and welcoming experience that I will never forget. We spent lots of time enjoying the finer things in life, listening to music, eating home cooked food, good conversation, and shooting hoops. He turned me into a real Neil fan and had me back into Pearl Jam and introduced to so many others.. Music is medicine, we all need some right now...
During these days I'm sending love to the Parsons family and all the friends of BP. I am grateful for our time and will always miss you... Our love will not fade away Ben. Much love to you all.
(Ben and spent 5 days together at the end of August and saw the pinnacle falls on the yellow dog river outside of Marquette, it was an awesome hike)
Miss you
Erik Kinzinger
♥️BLP💙 less
I was so sad to hear of my dear friend Ben Parsons passing before Christmas. The Parsons family is special and Ben shined bright because of that. I first met Ben at the Brethren school while I was recycling the school with a group of my special needs... moreI was so sad to hear of my dear friend Ben Parsons passing before Christmas. The Parsons family is special and Ben shined bright because of that. I first met Ben at the Brethren school while I was recycling the school with a group of my special needs students. Ben approached my group with a smile and we met for the first time. Ben made a difference in the lives of many youth and was well loved by everyone at the Brethren school.
We shared many great times and were roommates for almost two years. An early memory was the Packer SB in 2011. Going to FBF for the first time with Ben was a warm and welcoming experience that I will never forget. We spent lots of time enjoying the finer things in life, listening to music, eating home cooked food, good conversation, and shooting hoops. He turned me into a real Neil fan and had me back into Pearl Jam and introduced to so many others.. Music is medicine, we all need some right now...
During these days I'm sending love to the Parsons family and all the... less
I worked with Ben at SEEDS. His light was consistently one of the brightest in the room, and I was always drawn to his energy, smile, warmth, intelligence, and humor. I’m grateful for the time and space I got to share with him. My heart breaks for this... moreI worked with Ben at SEEDS. His light was consistently one of the brightest in the room, and I was always drawn to his energy, smile, warmth, intelligence, and humor. I’m grateful for the time and space I got to share with him. My heart breaks for this loss, and for your family. Blessings to you all! less
Parsons family, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of Ben. He was such a gem and we are all lucky to have been able to share some moments of his life.
Having moved to the UP a few years ago I ran into him from time to time, and even after so many... moreParsons family, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of Ben. He was such a gem and we are all lucky to have been able to share some moments of his life.
Having moved to the UP a few years ago I ran into him from time to time, and even after so many years was always greeted with a big hug and his famous enthusiasm. less
Ben was a person that you would never forget and counted yourself lucky to know. His pure soul, humor, caring nature and that laugh made an impression on all those that loved him.
John, Charmaine, John H. and Graham - I love you all and my heart goes... moreBen was a person that you would never forget and counted yourself lucky to know. His pure soul, humor, caring nature and that laugh made an impression on all those that loved him.
John, Charmaine, John H. and Graham - I love you all and my heart goes out to you. Ben was an amazing friend. less
Can’t express how much I’m gonna miss Benny. One of the best people you could ask for to have in your life. I’ll remember our last camping trip fondly.
My heart goes out to all of you. Sending healing light and love. 🙏🏻❤️ I worked with Ben at Farm Block checking campers in as they arrived one afternoon. I still remember how warm, funny and kind he was. He made every person arriving smile and... moreMy heart goes out to all of you. Sending healing light and love. 🙏🏻❤️ I worked with Ben at Farm Block checking campers in as they arrived one afternoon. I still remember how warm, funny and kind he was. He made every person arriving smile and feel welcomeI never got to know him well but I still remember those few hours, that time continues to be a sweet memory for me that I will hold dear. He is a bright loving soul. less
I met Ben my freshman year in the dorms at Western, I had no idea at the time that he would become one of the most important people I would ever meet in my life. I was 18 when we became friends, and I had a external shell to the world built up and was... moreI met Ben my freshman year in the dorms at Western, I had no idea at the time that he would become one of the most important people I would ever meet in my life. I was 18 when we became friends, and I had a external shell to the world built up and was not yet my true self. Ben was about as genuine of a human being as there ever could be. He listened to and truly cared about what you were saying to him, and was never the type to wait for his turn to talk. Although he had absolutely no idea he was doing it, he taught me how to be myself. He taught me how to find joy and happiness in the smallest parts of everyday life. He taught me how to express myself, and I would be a far lesser man today if he had never been a part of my life. His eternal optimism and laugh were infectious.
We shared an apartment together later in college that backed right up to the Knollwood disc golf course. Tossing rounds on that course, or hoopin' on the rim that we put up in the parking lot of our place (thanks Grizz) were some of my best memories from that era of my life. Anyone who has ever played ball with Ben knew that the sneaky left hand in the lane was hell to defend.
I am extremely grateful to have all of those memories with him, and will look back on those times with nothing but a smile on my face exactly how he would have wanted us to. I love you Ben, and you'll forever be a part of how I live my life. To the Parsons family, I am thinking about all of you daily, and want to reiterate as so many others have already just how much of a positive impact and lasting presence that Ben had on all of us. less
Charmaine Parsons
Ohhh, Riley. Remember when we had a joint graduation party at your parents? Evident that you two were so connected. Thank you for your kind words. It helps . . . . sort of.
What a great pic of Ben on the website, doing one of the things he loved best. It is the thing I shared most with him. Many fishing trips since he was very young, especially on the banks of the Huron. In the picture, it looks like he is about to turn to... moreWhat a great pic of Ben on the website, doing one of the things he loved best. It is the thing I shared most with him. Many fishing trips since he was very young, especially on the banks of the Huron. In the picture, it looks like he is about to turn to me and smile. Probably make me laugh with his great sense of humor and wit, that I will miss so much. We also shared a passion for music, and enjoyed playing together. I hoped so much it would help with his struggle, but that was bigger than all of us who tried to help. In losing someone like Ben our loss is great, but the memories are greater, of the wonderful person he was. Rest well my friend. May your rivers run full, teaming with fish. Your memory will be with me, on many future casts. less
I will continue to laugh and cry over our memories forever.And I will hold you in the deepest gratitude. Thank you, my dear friend... For all of it. Give that Old Maybell Girl some love from me.....
I am so grateful and treasure all the memories.... The daily bits,the hysterical adventures, the music we made and songs we sang, the heartbreaks and shoulder sobbing.... All of it! I love Ben Parsons. I loe you, Ben. Your spirit is of the Otterand your... moreI am so grateful and treasure all the memories.... The daily bits,the hysterical adventures, the music we made and songs we sang, the heartbreaks and shoulder sobbing.... All of it! I love Ben Parsons. I loe you, Ben. Your spirit is of the Otterand your heart is of the Bear. less
I woke up this morning thinking about Ben and EK and Maybell Dog playing b-ball in the driveway on McClellan Rd.... They were at it all the time, those 3. They all loved that shit! So much passion and fun times and growing together.... We were a pack.
The Parsons family, I am so sorry for your loss. Ben and I were friends in college, and I look back on those days with such fondness. Ben was a wonderful friend and joy to be around. The world has lost a great person. He will truly be missed.
The loss of Ben feels impossible to comprehend. John, Charm, John H. Graham, I’m thinking about you every day and sending healing thoughts.
Thinking about Ben carries so many loving memories, laughing hysterically, music and dancing, beautiful scenes... moreThe loss of Ben feels impossible to comprehend. John, Charm, John H. Graham, I’m thinking about you every day and sending healing thoughts.
Thinking about Ben carries so many loving memories, laughing hysterically, music and dancing, beautiful scenes in nature, sooo much driving, and support in rough times.
Anyone who met Ben was delighted to meet the most warm and gentle spirit. But also I keep remembering how determined he was, and strong in body and spirit. In the jobs he worked he was quick to redefine the role and set records in whatever regard, seeds, clean water action. He picked up fly fishing and seemed to master it freakishly fast.
He loved fishing with a passion and I remember him eagerly waking up around 5 on Saturdays in Manistee to get to the river. When he started a running practice I was inspired by his stamina and discipline. Once he busted his running shoes and decided to run like 7 miles in steel toe boots, not exaggerating.
Planting a garden in Redford that fed us, learning how to tile a floor, helping his dad roof the barn, 'doing' the goats with Eric and Julie, or the chickens back home. He always tackled ultra difficult tasks with lots of humor and vigor.
He loved basketball and playing his guitar and harmonicas. Hilarious sports commentary.
He taught me how to be more conscientious about the environment in everything he did, all the big and small ways that he tried to do his part. He inspired a love for the outdoors and awareness for conservation in so many young people through his work with seeds.
He was an empath and carried this heaviness, but he never wanted to bring anyone down, only lift up. He wanted to make everyone around him feel at ease, often to the detriment of his own deserved rest.
He loved his family and friends deeply and felt like one with the people around him. This is a tragic loss of someone so irreplaceable, but talking about him in past tense doesn't seem like the truth because his light is very present as I remember him, he'll always be a part of the lives he touched less
John and Charmaine, my heart goes out to you all. I was truly saddened to hear of Ben's passing. Although I didn't know Ben for a long period, every experience I had that he was involved in was better due to his presence. Some of those Crag Lake trips... moreJohn and Charmaine, my heart goes out to you all. I was truly saddened to hear of Ben's passing. Although I didn't know Ben for a long period, every experience I had that he was involved in was better due to his presence. Some of those Crag Lake trips were such good times and I feel privileged that I even got to tag along. Since I left, my trips back thru the UP have been brief and super busy, it pains me that I wasn't able to connect last time through. I'm so sorry for your loss and hope to see you soon. less
Ben was a once in a lifetime special person you will ever meet. This guy could put a smile on anyone's face. It was a true honor knowing him. Weither its was hanging out, playing ball or just talking to him, it would bring a smile to my face.
The... moreBen was a once in a lifetime special person you will ever meet. This guy could put a smile on anyone's face. It was a true honor knowing him. Weither its was hanging out, playing ball or just talking to him, it would bring a smile to my face.
The Parsons family, words can't express the sadness I feel for your family. Ben was loved by so many people and he brought joy to all those people. The world lost a wonderful man, son, brother and friend. less
Oohh! My heart goes out to you, Charmaine and John, John Jr, and Graham. Such a difficult loss. I didn't know Ben well, but I do remember him smiling big, and and always welcoming me to chat a bit. Do be open to Ben finding ways to let you know he is... moreOohh! My heart goes out to you, Charmaine and John, John Jr, and Graham. Such a difficult loss. I didn't know Ben well, but I do remember him smiling big, and and always welcoming me to chat a bit. Do be open to Ben finding ways to let you know he is near, as one comment suggested. He'll always be with you in love! May you find all the comfort you need through these times. less
I am so sorry for you to know this horror. My heart has been with you since we heard this saddest news. Ben’s joy was contagious. He brought so much fun and laughter into Joshua’s life (and to mine whenever girls were allowed 😊). There simply are... moreI am so sorry for you to know this horror. My heart has been with you since we heard this saddest news. Ben’s joy was contagious. He brought so much fun and laughter into Joshua’s life (and to mine whenever girls were allowed 😊). There simply are no adequate words when you lose a child, but I urge you to lean into the love and strength that surrounds you and look for him to say hello in all the old familiar places. All I know for certain is that they stay very near, our boys who left too soon. Sending so much love to all of you lovely Parson’s Person’s and The Farm Block Family. 💛💛💛💛 less
Benny was the best. I will miss him every single day. He loved to dance, laugh, and he gave the best hugs ever. He always greeted me with his little laugh, big bear hug and JUJU!! We shared so many wonderful times together - my sweet cousin, will love... moreBenny was the best. I will miss him every single day. He loved to dance, laugh, and he gave the best hugs ever. He always greeted me with his little laugh, big bear hug and JUJU!! We shared so many wonderful times together - my sweet cousin, will love you forever. ❤️ less
John, Charmaine, John H, and Graham, this news is heartbreaking.
I have thought about Benny Boy quite a lot over the past few years. I saw Mr. and Mrs. P at the Farmer’s market in Calumet and asked about Ben. I was so sad to hear that he was... moreJohn, Charmaine, John H, and Graham, this news is heartbreaking.
I have thought about Benny Boy quite a lot over the past few years. I saw Mr. and Mrs. P at the Farmer’s market in Calumet and asked about Ben. I was so sad to hear that he was struggling.
I have reminisced a lot about how Ben ALWAYS greeted me with a bear hug and a smile. At Graham’s early concerts, he would dance with me. He showed me what it was to truly dance like no one was watching. I think, to him, he was treating me like he treated everyone else, but for me it was a truly profound feeling. He always made me feel like I was important and visible. That has never been lost on me. The way he made me feel as a fellow human being was such a gift.
Our paths had not crossed since our early 20’s but I feel the loss of him fully. I truly loved Benny Boy for his kindness and his
genuine heart. He is so very missed.
Julie LaporteI woke up this morning thinking about Ben and EK and Maybell Dog playing b-ball in the driveway on McClellan Rd.... They were at it all the time, those 3.... They all loved that shit! So much passion and fun times and
support and growing together.... We... moreI woke up this morning thinking about Ben and EK and Maybell Dog playing b-ball in the driveway on McClellan Rd.... They were at it all the time, those 3.... They all loved that shit! So much passion and fun times and
support and growing together.... We were a pack. I am so grateful and treasure all the memories.... The daily bits, the histeical adventures, the music we made and songs we sang, the heartbreaks and shoulder sobbing.... All of it! I love Ben Parsons. I love you, Ben. Your spirit is of the Otter and your heart is of the Bear. I will continue to laugh and cry over our memories forever and I will always hold you in the deepest gratitude. Thank you my dear friend... For all of it. Give that Ol Maybell Girl some love from me.... less
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