Ben Laverne Heyn born December 22, 1915 in Woodhull, Illinois to immigrant parents, Paul and Irene (Anderson) Heyn. The family moved to Winthrop, MN and Ben graduated from Winthrop High School in 1933. Ben worked for the Civilian Conservation Corps for four years and helped subsidize the family farm during the depression. In 1937, he came to Thief River Falls to work in the office of the C.C.C.

Ben was united in marriage to Norma Noel, February 16, 1939 in Thief River Falls at Trinity Lutheran Church.

He started working for the Soo Line Railroad in 1942 until he retired in 1978. Ben and Norma enjoyed wintering in Mesa, AZ for 12 years after retirement.

Ben was a member of Zion Lutheran Church for 60 years. He was also a member of the Soo Line Veterans Association and the Golf Club. Ben enjoyed wood working, reading, fishing, golfing, gardening and spending time with family. Ben took great pride in his backyard gardens and his flowers were the pride of the neighborhood. He also enjoyed delivering meals on wheels.

He was a true gentleman and was known for his honesty and generosity. He will be remembered for his kind smile and loving demeanor. His strong faith in God sustained him through his final months of life.

Ben is survived by his wife, Norma, of 67 years; one son, Roger (Valerie) Heyn, Thief River Falls, MN; one daughter, Patsy Heyn, Clarendon Hills, Il; three grandchildren: Ann (Ed) Otstott, Plainfield, Il, Steven (Deanna) Heyn, Castle Rock, CO and Julie (Doug) Hatch, Akron, CO; nine great grandchildren: Josef and Jessica Hatch, Sara and Nick Heyn, Eddie, Katie, Emily, Jon and Little Ben Otstott; one brother, Glen (Joan), Madison, WI; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers; one sister; and daughter-in-law, Nancy Heyn.

Ben Heyn died Wednesday, June 21, 2006 at his home in Thief River Falls, MN at the age of 90 years 5 months and 29 days. May his memory be blessed.

Memorials are suggested to Hospice.

ORGANIST: Ida Nordvall
SOLOIST: Van Swanson
SELECTIONS: Because He Lives and The Lord Prayer
CONGREGATIONAL HYMNS: Precious Lord, Take My Hand # and What A Friend We Have in Jesus # and How Great Thou Art
HONORARY PALLBEARERS: Bens fellow Soo Line Employees