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Benjamin Portell Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Benjamin Portell
Sponsored by anonymous.
Charlie Gili
November 26, 2023
Hello,
We wanted you to know that we will be honoring and remembering your loved one this holiday season. We have recently sent Care Packages to our deployed troops in his name. Each package will carry the name, photo, service branch, rank and hometown of Benjamin Brian Portell US Army Sergeant.
We realize that this is a small tribute, but we do this with all respect and sincerity and we want you to know that it is made possible by thousands of like-minded individuals from across the American youth hockey community, our family, friends and many others who support our mission.
We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you safe and strong.
Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of our US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign
May 30, 2017
Memorial Day is over. Benji crossed my mind. There is a weird mix of feeling during these occasions. I am obviously sad that he is gone. I am also proud he worked in the armed forces. I am very glad to have known him (though a very short amount of time in High School), his smile, his demeanor...extremely nice and humble to boot. I also feel a bit of nostalgia wishing I could go back and see him all the more. Ah well, life is an odd thing. A mix of happy, sad, tears, smiles, ...and reminisces.
Here's to the faithful, the kind, the true.
EK4
Rhonda Harris
May 29, 2017
Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends John 15:13 we love and miss you Ben Rhonda
S Berry
May 26, 2017
Ben,
Memorial Day weekend is here. While everyone else is taking advantage of sales, people are having BBQ's, having many drinks....I am remembering you and the many other men and women that paid the ultimate sacrifice.
Every once in a while a memory of our conversations will pop up and I still get the biggest smile, sometimes I tear up. One that sticks out in my mind is when we were alone and talking about life in general. It was a "serious" conversation and you said, "Sometimes I feel like a squirrel in the game of life and everyone else is a coyote." And although it had a serious meaning behind it we both looked at each other and laughed.
You made an impact in this world, in many people's lives. I will never forget your laugh, and big genuine hugs. Always remembered, never forgotten.
S Berry
July 18, 2016
Ben,
Once again thinking about you. You would be one year older, and that makes me think of how short your life was cut. How many wonderful years were taken from you. Miss you and your laugh, the world is a darker place without you in it.
S Berry
May 26, 2016
Ben,
Memorial Day is coming up and of course it brings your memory to the forefront of my mind. I still have moments when I cry and wish you could have lived longer, to experience the joys of being a father. I never met Michelle but you talked to me about her. I was so thrilled to see you happy. I just wonder what your life would be now. You are never forgotten.
Rhonda Harris
December 26, 2015
Think of you offen and miss you very much. You were a loving young boy and grew into a wonderful young man.
December 25, 2015
Miss you Ben.
December 23, 2015
I was the MEDEVAC pilot that responded to this call on that terrible day. Even though I never knew him, I still live with what happened that day, as does my entire crew. It comforts me to know that he has family in my hometown of Jacksonville, FL. God bless the family and friends.
Samantha Berry
May 24, 2015
Ben, I think of you often. Sometimes a memory of a talk with you will come up and I still get the biggest smile on my face. There are people you meet in this world who will have a lasting impact on your life, you made one on mine and many others. Tomorrow is Memorial Day. It is one of the many days each year that you cross my mind.
Susan Portell
May 12, 2015
Son,
You were so missed this Mothers Day! On that special day I remember every little detail of your birth. Every little detail of your childhood and sit in awe of the man you became. I miss you beyond words. I know one day I will stand beside you again and get to see that BIG smile and get my bear hug. Love you to the moon and back Son!
Terry Moshier
December 31, 2014
I haven't been on the computer for several days, so I am behind with this message.
Ben, we still love you and miss you. We are so proud of your service and sacrifice, but there will always be a hole in each of our hearts where you belong. I know you and Tim are keeping the Heavenly Barbecue stoked and the beer cold for all of us when we join you. Pray for all of us, as we continue to pray for you.
Love you every day.
Rhonda Harris
December 26, 2014
Think of you offen but more on today's date. Love and miss you very much Ben.
Terry Moshier
May 26, 2014
Loving you and missing you.
Terry Moshier
December 26, 2013
I thought about you all day, Ben. We still miss you and are so proud of your service and sacrifice. You know Michelle remarried in April, and she and her new husband, Tommy, keep your memory alive in their hearts. I know where you are and that you are safe and happy. We will always miss you and love you.
Mother-in-law
Terry Moshier
joseph dunmire
August 7, 2013
been thinking alot about you lately bro,still hurts to this day that your gone. man i miss you so much. ever since i got a kia bracelet i dont take it off for nothing. we lost jason maynor a while back still missing him. i just wish i could have you guys back. i miss you guys alot.
spc joseph dunmire
172nd stryker brigade for life
Terry Moshier
May 28, 2013
Still miss you, son-in-law. You and your mom and dad are always in my prayers. It was so good to see them again.
Brandon Bruce
May 28, 2013
Hey man I thought about you this weekend seeing as it was Memorial Day weekend It's been awhile since that devastating day that I heard your name being called out as the BC was telling us about you that was a rough day for me and Mike but I keep your hero bracelet right by my bed so I won't forget why I'm home you were a great friend and NCO and I hope that when we meet again nothing has changed with you. I'll keep you in my thoughts and your family in my prayers
Terry Moshier
December 29, 2012
It's so hard to believe it's been 5 years since those sad, gentle men came to our door. We still miss you. So much has changed, but some things never will: we love you, we miss you, we are so proud of your heroism.
Terry Moshier
Mother-in Law
Michael Katsantones
February 21, 2012
A little more than Four years later, I would like to extend my condolences to the Family or SGT. Benjamin Portell and his wife Michelle. I am so sorry for your loss. Benjamin was a great soldier and an even better friend.
Battle I miss you. All gave some, some gave all, you are gone but never forgotten. Thank you for everything you taught me and the inspiration given.
Drill Sergeant Michael Katsantones
Alpha Company, 2nd Battalion, 47th In.
Fort Benning, GA.
HWB 1/3 ACR OIF 07-09
Rebecca Lewis-Hughes
December 28, 2011
Thought about you and Capt Inman all day monday just couldn't find the worlds to convey my sorrow for you family even now 4 yrs later. I know you are looking down on them an you are in better place. Thank you for all the values you helped teach my son.
Terry Moshier
December 27, 2011
You were on my mind all day yesterday, remembering that day 4 years ago when you were killed. We love you, always will. We miss you, but we know where you are and that you are happy.
Terry Moshier
Mother-in-law
Peggy Childers
December 26, 2011
To the family and friends of Sgt. Benjamin B. Portell:
Please accept my remembrance of Benjamin on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
April Osborn (Portell)
May 31, 2011
Thinking of u today Ben, love ya!!
paul jones
May 29, 2011
i was with ben portell in basic training and in 4-11 fa im soooo hurt by this i cant believe this happened
The Szczech Family
December 31, 2010
Ben,
Never forgotten in our home.
Peggy Childers
December 26, 2010
To the family and friends of Sgt. Benjamin B. Portell:
Remembering Benjamin on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Terry Moshier
December 26, 2010
Ben - Yesterday it was three years since any of us heard your voice. Today, it's three years since those kind, sad men came to our house to tell Michelle you had been killed. We still love you and miss you so much, every day. You are my hero - you did your duty to the very last, and several people are alive because of your sacrifice. 10:00 Mass is being said for you today. Our consolation is that we will see you when we pass.
Love you
Mother-in-law
Terry Moshier
Charles H. Miranda
September 8, 2010
=========================================
YOUR LOVE WILL ALWAYS BE IN MY HEART.
=========================================
I'LL CLING ON TO YOUR LOVE
IN MY HEART;
I WON'T LET GO OF YOUR LOVE
IN MY HEART,
YOUR LOVE WILL REMAIN IN MY
HEART FOREVER;
I'LL HOLD ON TO YOUR LOVE
SO TIGHTLY AS THOUGH IT WAS
MADE OF GOLD,
YOUR LOVE WILL ALWAYS BE MY
TREASURE;
I'LL SEAL UP YOUR LOVE IN MY
HEART,
I'LL CHERISH YOUR LOVE IN MY
HEART FOREVER;
YOUR LOVE WILL ALWAYS BE MY
KEEPSAKE IN MY HEART,
NOT EVEN DEATH ITSELF CAN
SEPARATE YOUR LOVE IN MY
HEART;
AND I WON'T LET YOUR LOVE
WITHER OR FADE AWAY IN MY
HEART,
YOUR LOVE WILL ALWAYS LINGER
ON AND ON IN MY HEART;
YOUR LOVE WILL ALWAYS BE IN
MY HEART FOREVER.
=======================================
DO A WEB SEARCH ON:
charles h. miranda - or.
charlesthepoet2003
===========================
Rhonda Harris
July 16, 2010
thinking of you today on your birthday Ben. Rick and I love you and miss you. it hurts to think of what should have been for you and michelle.
Terry Moshier
July 16, 2010
Thinking of you on your 30th birthday. Went to Mass this morning; everyone there remembered you in their prayers. Miss you and love you so much.
Mom-in-law Terry Noshier
Terry Moshier
June 14, 2010
I would also like to contact the Master Sergeant. He was so kind and respectful. If anyone has his information, we'd love to have it.
Ben's Mom-in-law Terry Moshier
Bens Mom Susan Portell
March 9, 2010
If you know how to get ahold of the Master Sargent, I would love to stay in contact with him. Telling my Sons story is a way to heal from the pain that is held inside. Ben would of been proud to have such a friend that would honor him in such a way. Have him email me at [email protected] please.
March 8, 2010
The Master Sargent that assisted in bringing Ben home is now out of the services. Ben he still tells your story, I think it hurts him too.
Charles H. Miranda
January 6, 2010
=======================================
FOLLOW THE RAINBOW TO HEAVEN.
=======================================
A SOLDIER HAD DIE OUT ON THE
BATTLEFIELD;
BROKEN HEARTS ARE WEEPING FOR
THEM,
BUT TAKE COMFORT OF KNOWING
THAT GOD HAD SENT THEM A
RAINBOW FROM HEAVEN;
THE SOULS OF THE SOLDIERS
HAVE GONE TO THERE HOME
IN HEAVEN,
OUR LOVED ONE'S HAS FOLLOW
GOD'S LOVELY RAINBOW IN THE
SKY;
ALL THE WAY TO THE END OF THE
SKY.
THAT LEADS ALL THE WAY TO THE
OTHER END OF THE LORD'S
HOUSE IN HEAVEN,
SO JUST KEEP ON PRAYING AND
TRUST THAT GOD WILL SEND US
THAT SAME RAINBOW IN THE SKY;
WHERE OUR LOVED ONE'S ARE
WAITING FOR YOU AND FOR ME AT
THE END OF THE RAINBOW IN
HEAVEN.
=======================================
Do A Web Search On:
Charles H. Miranda -- Or.
charlesthepoet2003
=============================
Terry Moshier
December 26, 2009
Ben - yesterday it was two years since we have heard your voice. Today you have been gone two years. We all miss you and love you and are so proud of your heroism. Rest peacefully. We'll all see you in time.
Love,
Mom-in-law Terry
December 24, 2009
Joseph Dunmire
December 24, 2009
Ben, I miss you so much man. We had a good time up in Alaska with the 172nd strykers. You were such a good friend from Basic training all the way through our tour in Iraq. Lots of funny stories we have. I miss you alot.
172nd Strykers forever.
Donna Gillette
December 13, 2009
On this day and with each day that we enjoy our freedom, I would like to give thanks and let you know that I do not take our troops for granted. May you experience God when you feel your loss.
Jacci Naples-Klein
November 26, 2009
Michelle-
My deepest condolences for your loss. Please know that I am forever grateful for you husband's service and sincerely appreciate his dedication to our country. Be blessed and may you find comfort in warm memories.
Lots of love,
Your old college roomie...Jacci Naples-Klein
Terry Moshier
November 12, 2009
Ben -
You were in our thoughts yesterday. Jen, Isaac, your father-in-law and I went to the Veterans' Day Parade here in Jacksonville. Believe it or not, it's one of the biggest in the country.
We wore our special shirts - the ones with your name and Tim's name that Jeremy had made for Tim's race in 2008. And we wore our Gold Star pins. At one point a woman came up to me and said "Thank you for your loved one's service" and it made me cry.
We miss you so much. We are so proud of you. When they came to award Michelle the "V" for your Bronze Star Medal she said you would claim that you were not a hero, that you were doing your job. But you will always be my hero.
With love,
Your mother in law, Terry Moshier
S B
November 11, 2009
Ben,
I was thinking about you today...remembering you and the sacrifices made at the cost of this war. You will always be in my heart - especially on days like today. Veteran's day
September 8, 2009
Your wife, Michelle, with pride and pain
September 8, 2009
July 21, 2009
Big Brother Ben
I knew you when…
You laughed with me
You mocked me
You teased me
You tormented me
Then you’d ask to copy from me
You made me laugh
When you dallied with the mermaid
You made me impressed
When you embraced the upgrade
You made me clean
When you misplayed
You made me mad
When you broke Her heart
You made me proud
When you stood up with the tart
You made me glad
When you finally found your souls other part
You showed me friendship
You showed me love of family
You showed me how to celebrate
You showed me how to raise my chin to my nemesis
You showed me how to live
And then, You had the NERVE to show me how to die
You loved yours & lead yours even when we were too proud to ask for it. We miss you
Terry Moshier
July 17, 2009
Ben - I had a Mass said for your birthday yesterday. It was beautiful and simple.
Happy Birthday! We love you, always.
Mom-in-law
Michael i
July 16, 2009
Ben,
Happy Birthday in Heaven. May God hold you in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Birthdays In Heaven
Are there birthdays in Heaven?
Does the angel blow his horn?
Announcing to everybody
That this is the day you were born?
Can the stars be your balloons
And angel food your cake?
Presents wrapped in moonbeams
All the angels helped to make.
Birthdays meant so much to you
They were always a big deal
Birthday presents, lots of friends
And perhaps a special meal.
So we'll whisper a little prayer today
Asking everyone up above
To sing you a Happy Birthday song
And give you all our love.
~ Author unknown~
Susan Portell
July 16, 2009
Happy Birthday Son!
We all miss you so very much!
Love,
Mom & Dad
jerry jack
July 2, 2009
Hello Brother Ben,I want to let your Family know I am always thinking of your good times and the price we paid and to let you know this 4th will be no easier but as I tell the troops we will never for get our brother's or sister's and you to know you will always be in our hearts fighting this waar so other's may live and be free for our service and our sacrifice and know we are with you man.for all of us men and women to give the comfort ever ending and this fourth is for you as well......we miss you brother.
Terry Moshier
May 27, 2009
I just couldn't write this on Memorial Day, but we still love and miss Ben so much. He and Michelle should have been in Texas, living the life they planned. I know he's looking out for her.
Thank you, Ben, for loving Michelle. And thank you for your sacrifice to keep all of us free.
Your loving mother-in-law
Kathy Gonzalez
May 26, 2009
Ms. Gonzalez,
My name is Alex Lawson. I am Sarah McDonald’s son and a Lance Corporal in the Marine Corps. I am currently deployed with the 11 MEU CLB-11 TS Detachment Military Police Section. I received your email through my mother and did not receive the attachment for the guestbook or Mrs. Portell’s email address. I wanted to at least send my condolences in one way or another, so I thought I might send them through you if you wouldn’t mind passing them along.
I actually got a letter from my mother quite a while ago about Ben’s passing, and I wanted to write something comforting to his mother. I guess you could say I’ve been putting it off. In all honesty, I’ve never been good at this. I wish I could say that this is the first time I’ve had to contact a mother mourning the loss of her child, but it isn’t. In early 2007 I got a call from a friend of mine who was stationed in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Boucher (BOO-shay) was his name. We called him ‘B-B-Bobby Boucher’ after Adam Sandler’s character in “The Waterboy”. We met in Military Police (MP) school in Fort Leonardwood, Missouri in mid – 2006 and our whole training platoon was extremely close. We were like a big family, in a very literal sense. We had all the same loyalties and all the same skirmishes that an actual set of siblings would have. It was the first time in my life I had been part of a group that wasn’t separated into cliques, but was actually a whole. Every Marine in MP class 15-06 would have thrown off the gloves and fought for any one of his/her classmates, (which, as Marines will do, we actually did on a few occasions.) One of those Marines was Daniel J. Santee of Mission Viejo, California. He was a genuinely good guy.
When Bobby called me in 2007, he was with Danny in Iraq. At first I was excited to hear Bobby’s thick Boston accent on the other line, but his usual enthusiasm wasn’t in the voice he spoke to me with. I had known that Danny was a .50 gunner like I was. What I didn’t know was that Danny had been on a training patrol on a regular day, not even a combat patrol. There were no bad guys involved. His driver was over accelerating and lost control of their humvee in a turn, rolling the humvee. Danny was ejected from the turret and died a short time later of brain complications. Three other Marines from that training platoon were stationed with me at the time, and it was the first time that we had lost a friend to the war. It was devastating. It was also up to me to contact his family and send our regards on behalf of the platoon. Nobody else had the heart to call them, and I will never blame them for a second. It was the hardest thing I have ever had to do. I didn’t know what to say. I didn’t even necessarily know why I felt so compelled to contact a woman who had most likely never heard of me, but I did. In my mind, I was sure that she wouldn’t want to receive phone call after phone call reminding her that her son had died. I felt like I would be hampering her grieving process. But when I did finally call her, she sounded so happy to talk to someone who had fond memories of her son. She told me that of all the people who had called and written her, the Marines had been the most helpful. Some Marines from Danny’s unit, our friends from MP school, had shown up at her house shortly after their deployment ended and brought flowers and took care of her and her family for an entire weekend. She told me that she felt like a second family had adopted her, and she knew then what Danny had felt. Why he had joined and so readily accepted the news that he was deploying to Iraq. She learned that the Marine Corps mantra, “It’s not about you, but the Marine to your right and to your left,” extended beyond the scope of the battlefield.
I suppose what I’m trying to say is that Mrs. Portell should know that her son was loved by more than she might know, and that his sacrifice was not in vain, and it will not be an idle memory to anyone. Even without knowing him personally, I can assure her of that with the greatest confidence, because he was my brother. He was, and is still, my brother-in-arms and a fellow warrior, fighting for the very thing that I fight for now. The Spartans called it a “beautiful death” when a warrior fell in battle, and there was no higher honor. Times may have changed, but if you look in the eyes of a veteran upon the mention of a fallen comrade, you can still see the regard. It’s a pathos that only exists between fighting men; men that have fought and bled for a country that, regardless of political, religious, or personal beliefs, they believe in to their very core. It is something that can not be taken away or fully understood by others. It is a silent nod toward a grave and a subtle salute to a flag.
I extend my deepest, most sincere regards and condolences to his family and to his wife, and I wish them happiness in any form. On behalf of my Marines and myself, our prayers and thoughts are with them and we salute their son.
Sincerely,
LCPL Alex Lawson, USMC
Happiest Day of Bens life.
Susan Portell
May 24, 2009
Son,
We miss you so much! A day doesn't go by that I and your Dad don't think about you. I think about the love you had for LIFE. I think about how you always looked on the bright side of life, always finding a way to keep the positive in everything. Never worring your parents over anything. always trying to protect us.
I think about how it says in Gods word that God takes the good so they don't suffer the evils of this world.
Well Son, I know where you are at all times LOL. One day I will be by your side to. And hey, you are never going to grow old. LOL How cool is that!! You will never be forgotten Son. We will always tell your story. Remember save me a seat right beside you..
Love MOM MFL
Travis Watson
May 23, 2009
To the family of SGT Ben Portell,
My name is Travis Watson, I was the medic that was with Ben the day he gave his life for this great country. I am sorry it has taken me so long to write but I have not known what to say. I didnt know him that well but what I do remember was how he was a natural leader, and joker. He always had something funny to say to bring all of our spirits up. But what I remember the most is loading him up on the bird and reality really hadnt set in yet cause i was looking for him when we were about to leave. It really did hit home for me because both of us weren't married that long before deployment. But I will say that he was a Warrior, and A great leader. And there won't be a day that goes by where I won't think of SGT Portell. I am sorry for your loss. And if you want to know anything else my number is 254-721-8870.
Terry Moshier
May 20, 2009
Ben -
It's May 20; two years ago today you and Michelle were married. Happy Anniversary. We're proud to have you in our family and we miss you.
Love,
Mom Moshier
Susan Portell
March 25, 2009
Son,
Today you sould be so proud of you brother Mike. I know you are smiling down from heaven with a huge grin saying to Mike. "Well done bro"
We miss you Son.
T Starman
January 17, 2009
I offer my deepest condolences for your loss
In Memory of Benjamin ~ (Debra Estep)
January 1, 2009
Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.
The Wind on The Downs
“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”
(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )
Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….
“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”
I did not know Benjamin, but I am remembering
his service and sacrifice. He is my hero. !
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The Other Side
i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.
can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.
i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side
the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)
“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008
The Other Side –
(To hear the song)
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol
Sincerely,
Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom SSgt Vince – Lackland AFB
Proud Air Force MIL SrA Dana – Randolph AFB
Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55
Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b
Denise Szczech
December 31, 2008
Matt, Susan, Mike, Jeff, and Michelle,
Thinking of you all during this holiday season. Always have you in our prayers, as well as all our soldiers.
Always, The Szczech Family
Paul & Cathy Hasbrouck
December 27, 2008
To Ben’s Family
Paul and I want you to know we cherish our memories of Ben and Michelle’s wedding in Las Vegas. We wish we could have known Ben sooner and he and Michelle could have had more time together. His personality and good nature shines through in the pictures and memories of others who knew him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
JERRY JACK
December 26, 2008
SGT BEN,JUST WANT YOU TO KNOW
THE FORT WHICH YOU LIE IN IS BEIN KEPT UP!! WE MAY BE THE PAST BROTHER BUT NONE OF US WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTON AND YOU ARE AND WILL ALWAY'S BE PART OF US! WANT MOM AND DAD AND FAMILY AS WELL MECHELLE KNOW WE ARE STANDING GUARD AND WILL NEVER LEAVE OR BE LAID WITHOUT THE FIGHT..WE ALL NEED TO STAND AND BOW OUR HEADS FOR WHICH WE STAND AND DEFEND HER TODAY...ALL OF YOU ARE IN OUR PRAYOR'S 1ST CAV U.S. ARMY
Rebecca Lewis-Hughes
December 26, 2008
I will never let the memory of Sgt. Portell fade,we the mothers of 3rd ACR children think of him and Capt. Inman often and thank him for training them to be so vigilant. Rest soundly Sarge the boys are on the watch.
Peggy Childers
December 26, 2008
To the family of Sgt. Benjamin B. Portell:
Benjamin gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
We miss you Ben
December 25, 2008
Patty Sanders
December 5, 2008
Mr. and Mrs. Portell,
We have not forgotten you or your son. You remain in our hearts, thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Kenna Larra
December 4, 2008
We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families at this time. This is a Nonprofit Organization to honor are Soldiers!
FREE OIL ON CANVAS PAINTING OF THIS HERO. COMPLETE FORM AT WWW.HEROPAINTINGS.COM
Please contact us! Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com. If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely,
Kenna
JERRY JACK
November 22, 2008
BROTHER BEN,IT'S JERRY MAN IT HAS BEEN ALMOST A YEAR IT'S LIKE IT WAS YESTERDAY JUST WANT YOU TO KNOW WE MISS YOU BIG TIME BROTHER AND KNOW YOU WILL BE IN OUR HEARTS AND MIND ALWAYS!! AND WANT TO TELL YOUR FAMILY AND WIFE OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYORS ARE WITH THEM DURIN THIS THANKSGIVEING AND WILL ALWAYS WATCH OVER YOU WIFE AND FAMILY ALWAYS BROTHER AND YOU CAN COUNT ON THAT!!! JERRY JACK U.S. ARMY
JERRY JACK
October 23, 2008
Hey big brother it has been a long yr in the army as all us brother's still tryin to cope which will never happen but I WANT YOUR FAMILY TO KNOW ACROSS OUR GREAT NATION WE DEFEND TILL TODAY AND FOREVER WE WILL NEVER LEAVE OR FORGET WHAT A GREAT BROTHER YOU WERE AND ALWAYS WILL BE AND JUST LET YOU KNOW THE ARMY YESTERDAY AND TODAY WILL NEVER FORGET YOU BROTHER AND WILL ALWAYS BE IN OUR HEARTS S.KOREA VET AND TO LET YOU ALSO KNOW YOU WILL BE REMEMBERED ON VETERANS DAY AND ALWAYS!!!!!
Bigger than life
October 16, 2008
MOM Portell
October 2, 2008
Son,
You would be so proud. We were able to raise over $1100.00 for your foundation at Riverlakes. So far to date we have over $3000!!
I know you would want other young teens to know Jesus in a personal way. Your best friend Dustin races his car for your foundation which he will do every year, you would be so proud that your name lives on and will live on in the hearts of the young men and woman at Riverlakes church when they get to go to camp (Hume Lake) for the first time on your scholarship money. What a blessing this is for the families that have such a hard time paying such a small cost for such a huge benefit for their children.
Son you will never be forgotten!
Terry Moshier
July 17, 2008
Ben - I had a Mass said for you, Michelle, your family and ours on your birthday. I thought about you all day. I remember how surprised you were last year when you received a card and money from Dad and me for your birthday. The note I wrote told you to spend it on yourself - it didn't come under Michelle's strict budget guidelines! This birthday I spent going to Mass and thinking about you and Michelle, what should have been, and what an impact you had on her life and ours.
We will see you again. Hope you are the one to open the gates when we get there.
Love you
Mom-in-Law Terry Moshier
Nothing more important than family
Susan Portell
July 16, 2008
I wrote this three days after you passed away. Today is your Birthday and we are going to celebrate your life today. When you are looking down from heaven today and watching us I know I will beable to hear your big laugh after you see what we are going to do.
I wrote this on December 28th and haven't shared this with anyone and I want to share it now to the people that loved you the most.
December 28 2007
Son,
I have loved you for 27 years and will love you with each breath I take until we meet again. Son I knew since the day you were born that God had BIG plans for you, he had a purpose for your life- I knew you were a gift from God and I needed to make sure I took very good care of that gift by raising you to know Jesus as your personal Savior.
Son- The day you were born I knew you were going to be filled with Gods humor. As the Doctor layed you on my stomach after you were born you let loose not just once but 3 times a stream of release from being tied up to long inside your mama. It was so funny,son- all the doctor could say was- there he goes again- over and over and over- your life was like that a stream of joy, laughter and real since of self. You knew how to take a difficult situation and make it better just by being there and listening.
Son- you were always striving to make your mama proud of all your accomplishments. Everything you accomplished was to make me proud. The day you excepted Jesus into your life was the most rewarding. I know then that I had done my job to the fullest that my Lord had ask of me. I know without a doubt that Jesus lived within your very soul.
As you grew up there was this unspeakable bond between your brother Mike and you; always into planning and plotting the next adventure. I knew you always wanted to travel and experience life to the fullest.
The bond you have with your brother was so strong-- you loved deeply from the very bottom of your soul. Anyone that you came into contact with you enriched their lives with your very presence.
When you decided to join the Army you had so many reasons- to protect your little brother to be there to fight the fight with him. To change the direction of your life. you planned everything Son down to the finest detail- I used to tell you- Son planns change sometimes our plans are not Gods plans.
As you experienced your first tour in IRAQ you would come home on leave and experience every life luxury to the fullest. I believe you ate at every resturant in Bakersfield. the first place you would want to go was In & Out Burgers. Every minute counted, every breath meant something- you would always tell us- Don't worry I am going to be okay- worry about the other boys they need it more.
Son- I knew letting you go each time you came home on leave could be my last time with you. I cherished every moment with you, you gave me such joy. God has indeed blessed me with a Son that cared for others before himself. I have been blessed to have you for 27 years. As time goes on you won't be with us physically but your spirit will live in all of US!
You see Son, you always tried to change lives, as you asended to heaven lives have been changed for eternity.
I will never say good bye- I will keep saying I will see you later- just be waiting for me when I arrive so I can have that BIG hug that I truly miss- see you Son
Mom for life
Isaiah 40:27
Happy Birthdya Ben!
Safely Home
Michael Iezzi
July 16, 2008
Ben,
Happy Birthday in Heaven. May God hold you in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Always a since of humor
July 11, 2008
Always making funny faces
July 11, 2008
Ben loved his nephew Travis as his own
July 11, 2008
Ben's friends--
July 11, 2008
Missing you so much.
July 11, 2008
Brothers for LIFE
July 11, 2008
Ben living life
July 11, 2008
July 6, 2008
Thank you for the sacrifice made by Sgt Portell and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!
July 6, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you Sgt Portell!
July 4, 2008
July 4, 2008
Pastor Steve & Mardi Yeary
June 26, 2008
Dear Matt & Susan, we only heard the news this week that your dear son gave his life for his country on December 26, 2007. We never met him, but through our relationship with you at Starbucks, Matt, and all three of our kids' manager at Chili's, Susan, we know that you both were extremely proud of him and loved him very much. Since we share the parental bond of loving our adult children with you, we can't even begin to comprehend the loss and grief you must have been experiencing over these months since Ben's passing. We are praying for you that God will continue to comfort and heal you. Thank you for sharing the pride for your son with the community that you served in the restaurant business. We hope you will continue to share stories from Ben's life with whomever you are around, for that is the way he will forever be carried with you on both of your hearts. Love and prayers,
Jerry Jack
June 24, 2008
Brother Ben wish you were here can't talk to anyone but you and Bryan Riley miss my brother's who all went to Iraq YOU WILL ALWAYS BE IN MY HEART BROTHER YOU WERE ALWAYS A UPBEAT KEEP POSITIVE BROTHER JUST WANT TO LET YOUR FAMILY KNOW THIS FOURTH OF JULY 2008 WILL BE SILENT BUT I WILL ALWAYS THINK OF YOU MAN CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOU AGAIN YOU MADE OUR ARMY WHAT IT IS TODAY(ARMY TOUGH) AND US BAND OF BROTHERS WILL NEVER FORGET YOU BROTHER!!!!!!
Denise Szczech
June 19, 2008
Matt, Susie, Mike, Jeff, and Michelle;
Our thoughts are with you daily. We continue to hear and read wonderful things about Ben. The Szczech Family
Marlene Conway
May 26, 2008
Dear Ben,
Today is Memorial Day 2008 and it has been five months since God the Father has taken you from this world to to be in His Glory.
Your mom, my dear friend, your dad, Mike & Jeff, Michelle, and friends all of our hearts ache every day for you and miss you.
I want to thank you, Ben for serving our country, you put your life before others, so America can keep her "freedom" and so other countries that you have fought in may one day know what "true freedom" is.
Ben, you can now rest, for you are in the prescence of God the Father, Jesus Christ our Lord, and Holy Spirit.
Miss you with love,
Marlene & family
Terry Moshier
May 23, 2008
It's Memorial Day Weekend. Other people will be having barbecues and parties. This family will not. For our family we will spend the weekend missing Ben.
Ben, we wish you were here with us.
We love you and thank you for what you did and for loving Michelle.
With love from your mother-in-law
Jerry Jack
April 30, 2008
My heart broke when heard of Ben
didn't know what to do or say I was lost still miss his laughter and jokes
as a ARMY VETERAN MY SELF MY HEART GOES TO HIS BELOVED WIFE AND HIS AND HER FAMIILY I WILL MISS HIM AND MY GIRL FRIEND JOANN JERRY
GEORGE C.. RUDOLPH SR.
April 9, 2008
SGT.PORTELL THANK YOU FOR YOUR BRAVERY SIR YOU ARE A HERO SIR.70VIETNAM71
Charlene Kwek
April 3, 2008
Dear
Susie and Matt,
It has been years since we all lived on Boyd St., but I remember Ben
very well!! He was the nicest little boy. I still have a picture of Ben
and Jessica sitting together on a rocking chair at my house when they
were 4 or 5 years old. My heart broke when I heard the news about Ben
on TV. Denise and I went to the funeral home and saw the slide show. We are very proud of Ben as I know you are. Ben made the ultimate sacrifice so that we have the freedoms that we enjoy daily. We appreciate all that men such as your 3 sons have sacrificed for our country. Please accept our deepest sympathy. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family during this most difficult time. Charlene and Erich Kwek (Jared, Jessica, Kara, and Lindsay)
MIRIAM GAENICKE
March 30, 2008
I sincerely send my condolences to a true hero who fought for our country. It is truly a travesty and he will be remembered and loved by many.
Ben will be missed
March 30, 2008
Benjamin Brian Portell laid to Rest
March 30, 2008
Tim & Denise Szczech
March 27, 2008
Dear Matt and Susan:
"Benji", as we knew him, is thought of very often in this house as are you and the boys.The service was so beautiful and heart breaking. We pray for you daily.
We have such fond memories of all of you from "Boyd St.", and Cub Scouts. A memory of Mike, Ben, and Steve riding bikes looking for Jeffery. You found him through the fence in the nieghbors yard! Of course the three boys took advantage of the situation and rode into the field on the "bike trails". We laugh with Steve about that day.
Bens' wife is a beautiful young woman, my heart goes out to her. Our intentions to fill out a page from the service fell by the wayside as I realized we did not know Ben as the others did, we only knew Benji. What a wonderful man he had become. You two should be so proud of all three boys, as I know you are, what wonderful men they are. My whole family thanks your family for all the sacrifice, care, and love you all have for this country.
We keep you in our hearts and prayers. Hope to hear from you in time.
With love,
Tim, Denise, CJ, Steve, Sarah, Jake, and Emily
Sgt Portell
March 10, 2008
Farewell Brave Soldiers until we meet again at the gates of Heaven
March 5, 2008
Always be true American Heros
March 5, 2008
Always be remembered
March 5, 2008
will surly be missed
March 5, 2008
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