CELEBRATION OF LIFE
Obituary of John Benjamin Mord "Ben" Birch
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Ben Birch after a valiant battle with cancer, at the age of 59. He was surrounded by family and friends as he passed peacefully into the night. Ben was a loving father, dear friend, and cherished member of our community.
Ben spent most of his life in Honey Harbour. His love of the Harbour and boats was evidenced by his career choice as a marine mechanic at local marinas early in life. He then explored retail and worked as a postal carrier before returning to his true passion, finishing his career as the Parts & Service Manager at the Honey Harbour Boat Club. His job was not work, but rather part of his soul and he ached to return to this special place.
Ben was an avid model train collector, displaying his collection in a special room in each home that he lived. He could recite stories and details of the many ships of the Great Lakes like a historian. When not at the service desk at work, Ben could be found playing disc golf with friends on Deer Island, taking moonlight ”floats” around the bay, snowmobiling and spending time with his numerous friends.
Ben’s most treasured role was being the father to his sons, Spencer and Sawyer. They brought joy to him as no other human could. His love and pride for the young men they have become was heartfelt.
Ben gave of his time as if it was endless. From that flowed an insurmountable amount of love and dedication from his friends and family. His compassionate nature, kind heart and infectious sense of humour endeared him to all who crossed his path. In his final days, Ben was humbled by the outpouring of support and visits from his community. If friendships are an indicator of a life well lived, surely his was one of the best.
Ben is pre-deceased by his mother Margie (Millard) Birch, his father Ross Birch, wife Heidi (Webb) Birch, aunt Arlene Millard and uncle Robert Millard. He is survived by his two beloved sons, Spencer and Sawyer, his sisters, Jennifer Birch-Schofield and Heather (Aaron) Bertram, nieces and nephews, Charity, Eleasha, Troy, Christopher and Robbie, as well as uncle Peter Millard and aunt Gabrielle Jones and cousins Grant Millard, Anne Millard-Ferris and Jeremy Millard.
Though he may have embarked on his final journey, his spirit will live on through the countless lives he touched. Let us remember the lessons he imparted: to love unconditionally, to treasure family and friends, and to embrace life with a gentle heart and an unwavering spirit. Though we mourn his departure, we find comfort in knowing that he is now at peace, free from pain and watching over us from above.
Ben touched many people. His wishes were for community and marina friends to join in a celebration of his life at the Honey Harbour Boat Club. Please join us at the club on August 21st from 1pm to 3pm.
Additionally, Ben wished to celebrate his cherished time in the islands with his cottage friends. A separate celebration will be held on Saturday, August 19th, with details to follow.
If desired, donations may be made to the Honey Harbour Public Library, or a charity of your choice and may be made through the funeral home.
