Bennie Lee Huber, Sr. passed away peacefully on November 09, 2024, in Sioux Falls, SD, at the age of 88. Funeral service will be held on Thursday, November 14, 2024 at 11:00AM at the White River Community Event Center in White River, SD.  Burial will follow in the White River Cemetery.  A visitation will be held one hour prior to funeral service.

Ben was born on April 19, 1936, in Winner, South Dakota to Art and Anna (Hacker) Huber. As a child, Ben lived in Iona, South Dakota, where his parents were postmasters and ran a local grocery store. The family moved to Minneapolis, MN, for three years eventually finding their way to White River, South Dakota. Ben completed his freshman year of high school, worked at Clyde's Bakery for three years, transitioned to construction, and then enlisted in the army.

Ben enlisted in the Army and served 2 years from 1958-1960. He completed basic training at Fort Carson Army Post, Colorado Springs, Colorado. Ben was stationed at an Air Force Base in Alaska and was in the artillery regiment. On January 3, 1959, Alaska became the 59th state in the union. He fondly remembers this celebratory day. A round of artillery was fired for each state already in the union. Private Ben Huber was honored with setting off the charge for the state of South Dakota. He was released with the option to be called up for the reserves,' but he was not required for additional service. He was so proud of his service and often relayed many memories of duties, the cold weather, and all the experiences with the many people he served with.

Following his military discharge, Ben returned to White River. He began working heavy road construction. He was working construction in Montrose, South Dakota, where he met the love of his life, Muriel Muller. They married on June 1st, 1963, in Montrose, SD. To this union one child, Ben Jr. was born. They were married for 46 years until Muriel's passing in 2009.

Ben was a proud resident of White River, SD. He often noted White River as, "The greatest little town in South Dakota, in the greatest county, in the greatest state." Ben helped with the construction of the Mellette County courthouse in 1964. He was a proud member of the American Legion. If there was something that needed to be done around town, you could find Ben volunteering his time.

Ben joined the White River Fire Department after returning from the military. He dedicated

43 years to the department and served as the fire chief for 35 years. Collecting firetrucks and fire memorabilia was a hobby. He spent many hours admiring his collection. Ben was also an EMT with the White River Ambulance.

Ben was proud to say he worked as a custodian for the White River School District for 33 years. His work ethic was relentless. He treasured all the relationships that he built with the students often being referred to as Grandpa Ben. One of the things he missed most after retiring was getting to visit with so many people.

Sporting events were Ben's all-time favorite activity. He was a diehard Minnesota Twins and Vikings fan. He enjoyed attending all of the White River games.

Ben was an avid pet lover having cared for many stray dogs and cats. He was a kind and caring man often offering compliments to all. He gave the best hugs and always had time for people. He loved to tell jokes. Ben was a long-time member of the Nazarene church.

Ben wanted to thank the staff at Stoneybrook Suites and Assisted Living where he resided for the past six years. Their care, warmth, and kind heartedness always made Ben say, "I love it here."

Ben is survived by his son, Ben Jr., (Lynette) of Sioux Falls, SD, a granddaughter Samantha Muller, (Tyrell) of Omaha, NE, a grandson, Chance Huber, (Kiara Valentien) of Sioux Falls, SD, and great grandson's William and Remy Muller.

Ben was proceeded in death by his wife, Muriel Huber, sister Sharyn Baumgartner, and parents Art and Anna Huber.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Salvation Army.