Benjamin Whitman Van Riper (August 26, 1929-January 16, 2025) was a fine man, a devoted father to his 5 children: Coleen (John Rose), Brian (Dawn), Kevin, Brett (Karen), and Craig (Shelley), a loving and supportive grandfather to his 12 grandchildren (Cory, Anna, Morgan, Tom, Logan, Emily, Quinn, Madison, Gannon, Brennan, Madelon, and Sophia), and shared his exceptional life with his North Star, true love, and soulmate, his wife Madelon (1932-2017).

Ben's professional life was marked by a deep commitment to education. He taught Guidance and Counseling at Eastern Michigan University from 1968 until 1999.

Ben was as much a learner and listener as he was a teacher. He offered a patient ear and thoughtful advice, always taking the time to reflect and share wisdom with friends and family. His ability to listen without judgment, paired with his insightful guidance, made him a trusted confidant to many.

While Ben is missed already, his impact on the lives of the many cherished family members he leaves behind will always be with them. He will be remembered fondly over a game of cards, a deep conversation, a long walk, and every time one of his descendants is summoned to give a back rub -- some of his favorite things. He loved to give an assuring soft smile and a wink when one of us needed it, and he surely smiled as he reflected on his life of love, family, deep thought, and accomplishment. Ben had much to be proud of, and perhaps his greatest accomplishment was the deep, unwavering love he shared with Madelon. Their bond was a testament to a lifetime of admiration, support, and shared dreams. Together, for over 62 years, they built a life filled with adventure, love, and a family who cherished them and continues to love each other — leaving a legacy that will inspire all who knew them and witnessed the depth of their love.  May they rest in peace together, reunited in the love that defined their lives.

A service will be held at 1pm on Friday, May 16th, 2025, at Great Lakes National Cemetery, 4200 Belford Rd., Holly, MI. Please arrive 15 minutes early.

BENJAMIN W VAN RIPER

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