Obituary of Benjamin Hirsch

Ben Hirsch of Camrose passed away on Monday, October 6, 2014 at St. Mary's Hospital with his family at his side. In Ben's words, he "cashed in his chips" at age 90. Ben was born near Hay Lakes, AB and grew up in the Galahad and Likeness areas. He moved to the Avonroy district east of Camrose in 1946 and resided there the rest of his life. A long time farmer in Camrose County, he provided a wonderful place for his children and grandchildren to grow. He was a man of the 30's. Ben knew how to repair something from nothing and it was a rare time if an old building didn't yield up something that could be twisted, shaped or pounded into something useful. He was a true horseman and took great pleasure in working with all types of horses. Ben and Doris shared this passion and passed it on to their daughters. Many a family summer was spent working and showing horses at local fairs and shows. As the girls grew, so did a 4H light horse club that Ben and Doris helped form. Young riders and their horses gained skills and confidence at the 4H horsemanship camps held at the farm. Ben was proud of the 4H members' achievements and to being associated with 4H. Ben came from a large family and perhaps this developed into an enjoyment of being with people. When work was done, many a trip to town was taken "just to see what's going on". With a wholehearted commitment to community activities, Ben never saw himself as a volunteer but rather as "just helping out" where it was needed. Active in many groups, his longest dedication, from the 1940's to his passing, was to the Camrose Regional Exhibition (Camrose Agricultural Society). There he served and watched with pride as the CRE grew and developed into what it is today. He is survived by his wife Doris; children Kathy (Len) Padgham of Hay Lakes, Sandy Scott of Camrose, Karen (Keith) Martinoski of Red Deer, Jennifer (Ray) Klug of Camrose; sisters Doreen Hovde & Jane Watson; brothers Fred Hirsch & George Roberts; grandchildren Keith (Lauren), Angela (Dallas), Malcolm, Sarah, Leah, Elise, Jacqueline, Racquel, Wyatt; step-daughter Joan and her children. He was predeceased by four brothers Levi, Alphonse, Alex, Henry; three sisters Florence, Geraldine, Andreen and his first wife Florence. A Celebration of Ben's life was held on Saturday, October 11, 2014 at 2:00 p.m. from the Camrose United Church (4829 50 Street) with Rev. Liz-Carter Morgan officiating. Cremation has taken place. Memorial contributions are gratefully accepted to the Equine Foundation of Canada (c/o Susan Nelson, R.R.2, 326 Dyke Road, Falmouth N.S., B0P 1L0) or the charity of your choice.