Alvin Ben Carlson
Ben passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 6, 2018, surrounded by the love of his family.
He was born in Billings on July 11,1942, to Eldon R. and Myrtle (Hendricks) Carlson. Ben graduated from Billings Senior High in 1960 and immediately enlisted in the U.S. Navy for three years of service.
In the summer of 1963, Ben met the love of his life, Daisy Mae Damjanovich. They were married in August of 1964. The two were blessed with three wonderful children: Linda, Laurie and Benny. He was a loyal, patient and loving family man.
Ben joined the family business, Star Service, Inc., in 1966. He dedicated 35 years to growing the mechanical contracting business, serving as master plumber and a second-generation owner. A man of integrity, fairness and humor, Ben is described as a true icon in the Montana plumbing industry.
Ben loved watching his children (and grandchildren) play sports throughout their school years. He drove many a Montana mile to catch their basketball, football, baseball, soccer and track competitions. Like most fathers, he coached his daughters on the softball field and son on the baseball diamond. Patient by nature, he had a natural ability to encourage kids on and off the field. Every child played when Ben coached.
Ben was an avid golfer and member at Pryor Creek Golf Club for many years. He also enjoyed bowling and watching any sport in season. It was after retiring from the plumbing business that Ben pursued his true passion for horse racing, serving as the Racing Director for Yellowstone Downs from 1998 to 2011.
Survivors include his wife of 54 years, Daisy; daughters Linda and husband Joe Goggins, Laurie and husband Bart Bass; son Benny and wife Aimee. Grandchildren include Greg (Carly) Goggins, Kayleen (Corey) Schultz, Abbie Goggins; Jacob, Mackenzie, Jeremy, Gavin and Benji Carlson. Great-grandchildren: Kora, Daisy, Adlee, Judah, Gemma and Wesley. Sister Diane Rogers, brother Ron (Diana) Carlson, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Ben was preceded in death by his parents.
The family extends gratitude to Tendernest Assisted Living and Stillwater Hospice for their compassionate support.
Memorial service will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 13, at Michelotti-Sawyers, 1001 Alderson Ave. Interment at Mountview Cemetery, with reception at the Yellowstone Room at Metra Park.
Memorials may be made to Stillwater Hospice, 3737 Grand Ave., Suite #4, Billings, MT 59102.
Condolences may be made at www.michelottisawyers.com.
