Benjamin Alexander McDonald
September 20,1967 to May 30 ,2020
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ben. Originally from Stratford Ontario, Ben moved to the Bow Valley in 1990 and like many, fell in love with the mountains and all they had to offer. They would become his home for the next 30 years. One of Ben’s first jobs was at Laggans Deli in Lake Louise where he became affectionately known as “little Ben”.
While living in Lake Louise he enjoyed many days skiing and was an avid mountain biker. Ben loved all things connected to bikes and, in later years, could often be seen commuting around Banff on his beloved “Jake the Snake”.
Ben was a talented chef and worked in various kitchens throughout Lake Louise and Banff always offering innovative ideas with a knack for creating delicious dishes out of nothing. For the last several years, he worked for Banff Taxi Company, where he forged new friendships that lead to music jam nights, outdoor fires and baseball games. These friends also proved to be a great support for Ben during difficult times.
Ben was a deep thinking, sensitive soul with a sharp sense of humour and a contagious laugh. Although he had his share of struggles, behind those struggles was a person of great intelligence, integrity and compassion.
Ben will be sorely missed by his parents Diana and Alex McDonald, sister Susan, nieces Savannah Bannon (Andy LeMay, Avery and Theodore), Sidony Bannon (Steve Bushey, Lachlan), many aunts, uncles, cousins and devoted friends he made along the way. He was held in admiration and awe by a close group of friends in Stratford for “simply finding the most efficient manner” during a camping trip near Bayfield. Mostly, Ben will be missed by his daughter Gemma who was the light of his life and of whom he was incredibly proud and always strived to be a better person for. Rest easy Ben. A private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. If you wish, memorial donations may be made to Choices for Change through the W.G. Young Funeral Home, 430 Huron Street, Stratford. 519.271.7411 www.wgyoungfuneralhome.com
“behind every beautiful thing there is pain” – Bob Dylan.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Ben McDonald 2020..
Death notice for the town of: Stratford, Province: Ontario