Ben Schmalz, 75, Minot, died Tuesday, January 3, 2017, in his home.

Ben was born on March 14, 1941 in Milwaukee, WI to Joseph and Catherine (Ganje) Schmalz. He spent his childhood in Karlsruhe, ND and the family later moved to Minot where he graduated from Bishop Ryan High School in 1959.

After years of work in the service industry, Ben found his passion for woodworking. He could build anything he set his mind to, often researching and studying the design before bringing it to life for many to enjoy. He loved to make items for Bethany Lutheran Church. One of the last quotes he said was "Never let your hobbies get in the way of the Lord."

Ben had two children Terry and Michael, whom he raised with the help of his family. Ben was united in marriage to Donna on February 2, 1996 in Bethany Lutheran Church, Minot. They made their home in Minot enjoying retirement, traveling and spending time with family and loved ones.

Ben loved gospel and country music, however, he was once heard listening to Bon Jovi in his work shop.

In his younger years, he enjoyed hunting and canoeing with his friends. He always had a great story to tell and was quit a jokester with his grandsons, often being the target. He will be missed by all who were blessed to call him a husband, dad, grandpa, brother, uncle or friend.

His surviving family includes loving wife of 21 years, Donna; children, Terry (Wayne) Hanson, WI, Michael Schmalz, MN, Patrica Ofsthun and Ken (Lisa) Ofsthun, both of Minot: grandchildren, Jesse (Lindsey) Hanson, Cody Hanson, Michael J. Schmalz, Mathew, Brandon and Trevor Ofsthun; Sisters, Elaine (Charles) Hall, FL, Judie (Jim) Mello, Minot, Cathie (Bob) Elton, NC, Vicki (John) Martinson, Minot, Julie (Frank) DeGroat, Surrey and Mary Beth Carlson, Minot; Brother, Loren Schmalz, Minot and numerous nieces and nephews.

Ben was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Louise Richardson and brothers, Adrian and Joseph Schmalz.

Celebration of Life Service: 11:00 a.m. Monday, January 9, 2017, at Bethany Lutheran Church, Minot, ND.
Interment: Rosehill Memorial Park, Minot.
Visitation: Sunday, January 8, 2017, from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at the Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.
Memorials are preferred to Bethany Lutheran Church Foundation, Minot Hospice, Minot Cancer Care Center or to an organization of the donor's choice.