A man of many titles, Ben of Astoria, Ore., passed away Friday, April 27, 2018, at his daughter’s home in Thornton, Colo. Son of Violet and Lester Jarvis, Ben was born on May 29, 1937, in Anacortes, Wash.

Big brother to Jack and Louise, he grew up in Aberdeen, Wash. where he took trombone and piano lessons, built boats in his basement and mastered boating on the Wishkah and Grays Harbor waterways. His love of boating kept him close to two oceans, many lakes and the Columbia River during his lifetime.

A Navy sailor for six years he learned his life work in electronics and telecommunications.

World traveler describes his business career. Starting in Seattle climbing poles for PNB and with hard work, dedication and integrity he advanced to executive positions in seven states, Hungary and Mexico.

Husband to Sally, his high school girlfriend, they would have celebrated their 63rd anniversary in July. They built an amazing life celebrating many happy experiences.

Father to six amazing kids who are also boaters, travelers, live in five states and have inherited his great work ethic — Jim (Stephanie) of Alaska, Patti Dietz (Gary) of Colorado, Ron (Sandy) of Washington, Ken (Darcy) of California, Teresa Neeley (Mark) of Colorado, Joe (Mona) of Texas, follow in his footsteps.

Grandfather to 20 grandkids, 31 great-grandkids and one great-great-grandchild, who made him smile. Brother-in-law to Karen Jarvis; Danny Thompson (Jan); Dave Thompson (Karen) and uncle to four nieces and four nephews.

On his last journey he will join parents Violet and Lester; brother, John; sister, Louise Hamilton; nephew “Little Charlie” Hamilton; uncle Charlie Hopke; in-laws Frances and Louis Thompson; brother-in-law Tommy Thompson.

A celebration of his life will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 4, at Horan and McConaty in Thornton, Colo.