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Benjamin Roper Obituary

Benjamin Sandford Roper, Jr. WEDDINGTON - Mr. Roper passed away Wednesday, September 18, 2013 at his home in Weddington. Sandy was a kind and generous man who loved everyone unconditionally, especially his children Ashley and Ben. He lived life to the fullest enjoying hunting, fishing, snow skiing, traveling and being with friends. He was a lover of the Land in his business and in his life; always educating you about the trees, plants and waterways from the beaches to the mountains. Mr. Roper was blessed with a large family, the only son of Sam and Isbel Roper of Charlotte. Sandy is survived by his daughter Ashley Roper Molina (Tristan) and his son Ben Roper, his sisters Connie Connelly, Caroline Roberts (Joe) and Ibbie Alexander (Rick) and his best friend and constant companion Norma Jean Rector. He was preceded in death by his father Sam Roper and his mother Isbel Roper and sister Margaret Lofton. The church service to celebrate his life will be held on Saturday, September 21st at 2:00 pm at First Baptist Church at Indian Trail, 732 Indian Trail Fairview Road, Indian Trail, NC 28079 with Dr. Michael T. Whitson officiating. The family would like to thank the staff of the VA Hospital in Salisbury, and Jan Plyler Green, Kim Outen, and Jan Hall of Hospice Union County for their expert care of Sandy in his final days. Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church of Indian Trail at the above address. A private interment service will be held by the family for Mr. Roper.

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Published by Charlotte Observer on Sep. 20, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Benjamin Roper

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Jim Ruon

September 14, 2022

I´m so grateful Sandy came into my life at CMA. He became a treasure I´ll never forget. To see his smile, to hear him laugh, that funny thing he would do by opening his mouth wide open and cock his head forward just made my day then and now in remembrance of him!!

Jim O'Leary

July 2, 2021

You do not know me but I spent the Summer of 1979 helping Sandy build his Active Passive solar house. I had a great time and learned a lot about Sandy. It was one of my best Summers.

Connie Connelly

November 9, 2013

Sandy's spirit was the real thing. His exuberance was contagious for the adventurous and a wonder for the less so. It carried him as far as it could, then faith took over.

During his illness his children were his primary caregivers. He departed this life knowing that Ashley and Ben were caring, competent young adults and his great joy.

He was a major character in the lives of his family and friends, and we know a bit more about love and generosity and have had more fun because of Sandy. It may seem that a light went out when he died, but I'm discovering that the light that he was in this world is too bright to ever be extinguished.

I don't know what new life has in store for him, but I suspect Sandy has taken it on with gusto.

I am proud to be one of his four sisters.

Norma Jean Rector

October 29, 2013

Sandy and I had a wonderful,loving relationship for many years that I will always treasure. He leaves behind a unique legacy that I want to honor by hosting a "celebration of his life reception" that will be held on Saturday, November 9th from 3:00-6:00 p.m. in Charlotte, NC in the outdoor Courtyard of the Renaissance Hotel. This themed event will carry out a tradition of Sandy's. Plan to wear "Fall Colors with Black Attire." Come be a part of this special event to honor a man known to many as another Walt Disney and celebration his favorite time of the year.

Ashley Roper Molina

October 26, 2013

So great to see all the CMA people. He always told us great stories of his times there and the reunions.

David McGirt

October 23, 2013

I taught Sandy at Carolina Military Academy. When I recall those days and my association with Sandy, I always recall it with a huge smile. He became a fine man early in his life and remained a fine man. It is obvious that he has left a huge hole in the lives of those who were privileged to know him well throughout his life.

October 22, 2013

My sadden heart goes out to the Roper family. Sandy was always fun to be around. Jim Lawrence

Bryan

October 22, 2013

Some of us age and it shows and others do not. When I saw Sandy at the first Maxton reunion he had not changed a bit. His expressions, his tales; it took me back to our days at CMA. After that time in Maxton we made the effect to be in touch. Four of us gathered for lunch at a barbeque place and shared more tales about our adventures at CMA and of course, as adults. Like CMA, Sandy had the best stories regarding adventures after CMA. Sandy you have taught us all an important lesson. Reach out to those who we call friend, and stay in touch. We'll all meet again someday and it would not surprise to find Sandy welcoming us all home. Blessings

Steven Gale

October 22, 2013

I knew Sandy from CMA. I was in the class of '67. Everyone at CMA liked Sandy. I prayers are with all of his family and close friends.

Jim Rion

October 22, 2013

I've just learned of Sandy's passing I'm sadned greatly. He was one of the first people I met at CMA. We were in the same squad and hit it off immediately. Sandy became my best friend at CMA in 1967 and remained friends for life. When things got close to unbearable all I had to do was find Sandy and one of his stories would have me rolling on the floor! I'm so sorry I learned to late to come to the funeral. My deepest sympathies go our to all his family and our many dear friends who I know feel the same as I do about our special gift in this world, Sandy Roper.

Donna & Kenneth Spangler

October 13, 2013

I was deeply saddened when I first heard of Sandy's illness. As I read all the entries in this guest book, it is crystal clear what a true friend he was to so many people. Our family met Sandy through my sister, Norma Jean and I will never forget the Christmas's Sandy spent with our family. He always made us laugh and we always enjoyed hearing his stories. I don't know of a more generous man than Sandy Roper. He truly knew what life was about. He has left a hole in many hearts but I would bet money right now that he is smiling down on us from heaven.

October 4, 2013

I think the lost of Sandy is finally hitting me. I don't
mean the sick Sandy but I mean the Sandy that I will always
cherish. You were one of a kind. You lived life to the fullest. You took us all to the edge many times but we lived to tell about the exciting adventure that we had with you. I was always proud to be known as your sister. Everyone seemed to know you. I will miss you dearly; however, I know that you'll continue to be at my side as you always have been. You will live on in your beautiful children, Ashley and Ben. One of Sandy's devoted sisters, Caroline Roberts

September 30, 2013

Sandy, We will always remember you for your kindness and out-reaching manner that made everyone around so comfortable and at ease. Your sincere since of caring was always evident and we will miss you a lot.
Sincerely, Richard and Larry Connelly

Jim O'Leary

September 22, 2013

My memory of Sandy was: I went to the military academy, then ran into him while he was in the Navy, I gave him a ride to Norfolk once. His Dad paid for a hotel room. Then I saw him a few years later. He talked me into spending the summer of 1979 with him to help him build his Active/Passive Solar house. It was beautiful. I always thanked him for the best summer of my life. Goodbye good friend. See you soon.
Jim

Lance

September 21, 2013

I regret not being able to meet you Sandy. You were a good friend to my Dad and he spoke well of you. I know from hearing from him and others that you were a good Christian, and that you finished your course as the bible says. That is all the counts in this life..trusting and living the way Christ would. Hopefully we will see your vision go through as planned. May God the family at this time.

April Schnupper Medford

September 21, 2013

One says the name "Sandy Roper" and a smile comes to his/her face and it always will. I appreciate you and your friendship with my uncle, Richard Schnupper. Some of my fondest childhood memories were made with you two...Waterslide trips DAILY at the beach...and the infamous DOG DAY AFTERNOON...you showed a young child how to celebrate life and live each day to the fullest. Thanks for just being there when you could and please always KEEP SMILING!!! GOD BLESS YOU!!

September 21, 2013

Thank you Sandy for all you did for me and my brother Beau when we were kids. The dove hunting trips you planned for our hunt club will always be some of my fondest memories. I will always remember you for your generosity, kindness, and your huge smile.
- William S. Horack

Rick Castelo

September 21, 2013

Sandy was a man I respected, a true friend, someone I loved as a family member... a father like figure, and most of all an angel in disguise. I have been blessed by Sandy's presence in my life. I have only known Sandy for 6 years, and I envy those who have known him longer. It was God's destiny for Sandy, myself, and my cousin Louie to be a part of his life. Sandy was a visionary, a natural pioneer. Louie and I worked very closely with Sandy in these last 6 years of his life.... he has taught us many things and shared many of his visions. Sandy isn't "gone", he is all around us, his legacy will go on, it's only the beginning.

September 21, 2013

Rest in peace and know how loved you were Sandy. Such a fun loving (always in hats from Disney, etc)and caring Uncle. You meant the world to so many and now you have joined the saints in heaven. Watch over us and we'll watch out for signs of you in our daily lives.
Love, Lisa

heather hanline

September 21, 2013

Sandy was a awesime guy and he alwayd made me laugh. Everytime I come over and visited ashley it was always great. Her daddy did anything for anybody and always made you laugh. Rest in peace.

Ashley Molina

September 21, 2013

Dad you stood by me through the good, the bad, and the ugly. I will never forget the advice you gave me. I was so lucky to have you in my life. Thanks to all who have sent their sweet words.

Steve Clark

September 21, 2013

My condolences to the Roper family.

Beau Horack

September 21, 2013

Some of my best memories are spending time with my Dad, Sandy and others in a dove field raising hell and telling stories. I drive by the Twin Lakes business park in Huntersville several times a week and think of Sandy everytime.

Van Cocke

September 20, 2013

My 40 years of friendship with Sandy will forever remain dear to me. He truly was an amazing individual. I always admired his zest for life. He will be sorely missed.

Diane Rector

September 20, 2013

A kind and sweet man and loving father. He will be greatly missed

Edmund Roper

September 20, 2013

I stared at this guest book for half an hour and just couldn't find any words to express my feelings for Sandy. Then I saw the "light a candle" note, and thought to say that Sandy's life and love for living has always outshined any other light. I have never known anyone who brightened a room or one's life better than you, cousin. It is impossible to say how dearly you'll be missed. Give a huge bear-hug to our fathers and mothers for all of us when you see them.

September 20, 2013

I just heard of Sandy's death. There are not enough words to hold all of the memories that our families shared through the many, many years. You will be greatly missed by your family and many friends. May God grand all of those left behind His peace.

Rhyne Cannon III

September 20, 2013

Sandy was a great friend and hunting buddy to my father. They shared many laughs together. I enjoyed seeing him over the past few years, always smiling and glad to see me. I know they are both enjoying the beautiful scenery and majesty of heaven. God Bless!

September 20, 2013

so sorry to read the news of
Sandy's passing. condolences to
his family.
Hanna and Mike Boxer,
[friends from the past]

Jackie Watts

September 20, 2013

Always willing to help... I was leaving to go out of the country and asked Sandy where to get a money belt as we were eating at the Country Kitchen.... to my surprise within an hour he had one at my door. That was Mr. Sandy Roper.

Kess Connelly Clark

September 20, 2013

Sandy was a great man and a wonderful Uncle. I will always cherish many memories of Sandy and his stories will still make me laugh. I will miss calling him for directions or his insight on how to fix something. I look around my house this morning and see Sandy's handywork everywhere. He loved life and mostly his family and friends. I love you Sandy and always will.

Rick Matheney

September 20, 2013

Old friend, you will be missed. Go with our God of mercy and and love. May flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.

Ibbie Alexander

September 20, 2013

You were the dearest brother... we were so much alike in the way that we approached life. You were truly my compass and will be lost without you. Rest in peace I Love you Ibbie

Richard Schnupper

September 20, 2013

To my great friend of 43 years, I'm going to miss you.

Pamela Holder

September 20, 2013

My dear friend, rest in peace in the heavenly land with God as your guide and Jesus your Savior. I will forever be grateful for your friendship, mentorship and your unconditional love!

Glenn Tuttle

September 20, 2013

To the entire and extended Roper family, my heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead. Sandy was a wonderful guy and good friend for many years and surely will be missed by all who knew him. The stories by, of, and about him will live on forever and bring smiles to all who are sad to see him go!

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