Search by Name

Search by Name

FUNERAL HOME

CLOSED-Russon Brothers-Salt Lake

255 S. 200 E.

Salt Lake City, Utah

BENJAMIN TITERA Obituary

Ben Titera 4/25/1979 ~ 6/18/2011 Benjamin Vincent Titera (32) died Saturday night following a crash in his personal aircraft. Ben was born on April 25, 1979 in Redmond, WA. Ben was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and he served a two-year mission for the church in Paris, France. He married Anne Olsen in the LDS Salt Lake City Temple on August 29, 2002. Together they had two children, Kate and Christian. Ben excelled at everything he did. He did not believe in obstacles. He was the oldest of five boys and set the example for his brothers in athletics, academics and as an eagle scout. At Vestal High, he placed 2nd in the NY State Wrestling tournament. He obtained a full-ride wrestling scholarship to Brigham Young University. He graduated cum laude in accounting and began his career on Wall Street. Later, at Real Networks, he rapidly advanced to a Vice-President position. While working full-time, he earned an MBA from the Wharton School of Business. Wherever Ben went, he made an impact. He was a loyal friend and made friends everywhere he lived including Texas, New York, Seattle, San Francisco and Utah. He left a lasting impression with his infectious smile, charisma and oftentimes, his tool belt. Ben lived life to the fullest. He climbed to Base Camp of Mt. Everest, explored Asia, backpacked Europe, scuba dove in the Great Barrier Reef, ran with the bulls in Spain, drove cross-country on his Harley and went skydiving in Canada. He competed in marathons and triathlons including those in St. George, NYC, Big Sur, Seattle and Escape from Alcatraz. He recently completed the New Zealand IronMan. Of all Ben's accomplishments, his greatest was that of being a father. He loved his children deeply and they will miss him dearly. He is survived by Anne and their children, Kate (6) and Christian (5), his parents, Cal and Irene Titera, his siblings Jamison and Molly, Adrian, Marcus, his niece Rita, and grandmother Mary Campbell. Preceded in death by his brother, Christian and his grandparents: Evelyn Carlston (Gus), George Titera (Mary), and Vern Campbell. Funeral services will be held at Noon Saturday, June 25 at the Kimball Ward, 2555 Kilby Rd, Park City, Utah 84098. A viewing will be held Friday, June 24 at Russon Brothers Mortuary (255 S. 200 E., Salt Lake City) from 6-8 p.m. And before the service from 10:30-11:30 a.m. at the ward. Online guestbook available at www.russonmortuary.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Deseret News from Jun. 23 to Jun. 24, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for BENJAMIN TITERA

Not sure what to say?





July 13, 2011

My family's prayers are headed your way. sorry for your loss

Sam Rogers

July 6, 2011

Cal - sorry to hear about this. Although I never knew Ben, he seems like a great guy. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family in this time of need.

Famille Achi

July 4, 2011

To a great missionary who served with great enthousiasm, determination and love. Unforgettable, everyone who met him has never forgotten him because of his great presence from inside out. A blessing to have been around him. We extend our love to his family and pray for your strength.

July 2, 2011

Cal and Irene. So sorry to hear about BJ. We heard about it while at the MTC this week. Josie and I called to serve in Chile Santiago North Mission. We have fond memories of BJ and the rest of the family while you lived in CL Forest. Love, Harry & Josie Eulitt

June 30, 2011

I am so very sorry to hear about your loss. Although we did not know him personally, his obituary described him very well. It sound like he took his life by the hand. To have held him back from adventure and what he loved would have lessened his enjoyment in life and changed who he was. I know this is a great loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Marian (Collin) Pardue

Kathleen Turner

June 30, 2011

Cal,
I was just informed about the passing of your son. I am so sorry to hear this. I am praying for comfort for both you and your son's family. May God be with you.

Michelle Newbold Laker

June 30, 2011

I'm so sorry to hear about BJ. I grew up with him and he always found adventure wherever he went. He will be missed. My condolences to his wife, children, parents, and siblings.

Debbie Clough-Gitchell

June 30, 2011

This may seem like an odd entry,however, as I read through the obituaries in the paper last Saturday, something drew my attention to reading Benjamin's. Without ever having met him, I thought to myself and then shared with my husband "what an amazing, full life, that was definitely lived and enjoyed". Some people live a lifetime but never really live fully. It appeared that Benjamin took all of the gifts that were given to him and truly lived. What an inspiration to us all.

Richie Franklin

June 29, 2011

BJ and I grew up together. Some of my fondest (and craziest) memories from childhood had BJ running all through them. I can't believe such an energy was taken from this life so soon. Love you BJ and will miss you dearly!

Eric Thompson

June 27, 2011

I served with Frere Titera in France. Didn't know him personally but met him on a few occasions. Those occasions were impactful enough that I have remembered him these many years later even after so many others have flown from my memory. My deepest condolences to his family, and perhaps most of all, to those unfortunate enough not to have crossed paths with Frere Titera (and been bettered for it) in this life.

Bill Hankes

June 27, 2011

I just heard about Ben's accident this morning from a former colleague at Real, and I'm terribly sorry to hear this awful news. Ben was a great guy and a positive influence on those around him. My thoughts and prayers are with his children, wife and family.

Rick Ericksen

June 27, 2011

I heard about BJ's passing from my Dad, and am very sorry to hear about his advancement to a new stage of eternal existence. My family's thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time.

My Dad worked with Cal for years in several locations (particularly Clear Lake TX and Binghamton NY), and knew the family well.

Kathy Siglin

June 27, 2011

I remember BJ's enormous ability to make everyone around him feel uplifted and inspired, especially to follow his latest venture, whether sports, or business. What a gifted mind he had and still has in the Spirit World! It is unimaginable to believe that such an adventurous life is gone from us. May the Lord bring peace to all of your hearts, especially his children.

Tim Avery

June 27, 2011

I remember BJ being a much more complete person than the average kid our age back in Vestal Junior High and High School. My best to BJ's family in your mourning. I expect he will fill your heart until you see him again.

Jasmine Burch

June 27, 2011

I'm so sorry to hear about BJ. My thoughts and prayers are with your family. I remember running into BJ my senior yr hiking on Mt Timpanogos. He somehow recognized me though it'd been quite a few yrs since I'd last seen him. It was good I got to see him. He will be missed. God Bless your family.

Nate Mathewson

June 26, 2011

I have known him since I was 8. Great man!

June 26, 2011

What an unimaginable tradgedy. I am so sorry that you once again have to feel the unfair pain and sorry of loosing a child. Ben sounds like an incredible person. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Sue Boenisch

John Torrey

June 26, 2011

I first met BJ when he came to Clayton Ave. BJ was a great person. He will be missed

Dennis Brown

June 26, 2011

Elder Titera was a wonderful missionary! As his mission president in the France Paris Mission, I loved to interview him and be around him and talk with him. He had such a love of life and a love for all the French members and for his companions and for the other missionaries. He will be greatly missed, but he will be a great asset to the work on the other side of the veil.

Nicole Esposito Ross

June 26, 2011

I still remember the Titera family arrival in the Binghamton Ward. It was marked by a charismatic little BJ introducing himself and shaking hands with everyone in our ward. I think he was maybe 11 or 12? That memory assures me that even now he must surely busy making an impact on those around him . He was a very special person and your wonderful family is in my thoughts and prayers.

Tony Aloisio

June 26, 2011

Cal and Irene, My family and I met you and family 3 1/2 years ago and saw your grief from the loss of Christian. Our children have been placed on this earth to grow, learn from their parents and watch them grow old. The rolls have been reversed in your case as you have lost two sons very near to your hearts. To me the Lord has a plan for the Titera's as brothers have been reunited and as time passes and the pain decreases the knowledge and testimony that a family sealed for all time and eternity has through our Heavenly Father will fill the gap. God bless concentrate on the times that you had together during his time on earth as our prayers our with you. Your buddy Tony.

Tim Hansen

June 26, 2011

I knew Elder Titera as a missionary in Paris, France. Though I never knew him extremely well, his influence was felt throughout the mission of approximately 200 missionaries. Everyone knew who he was and what to expect when you met him. There were only positive and amazing things said about him. The times I interacted with him, I truly felt he had such a zest for life, leadership, and God.

The following attachment is a general conference article given by Richard C. Edgley who resides in the ward I grew up in. He talks about the several tragic deaths of young people our ward has endured. He mentions ways to cope and become stronger. Though finding true comfort is difficult to find immediately, I know that the gospel of Christ will help heal the pains of the loss of a loved one.

http://lds.org/general-conference/2007/10/enduring-together?lang=eng

All my best to Elder Titera's loved ones.

Wendy Collmar

June 25, 2011

I did not know your son, Ben, but I'm in the Arlington 1st Ward and have known your other children through out the years. I am so very sorry that this accident has happened to Ben, his family, and the rest of your family. May God embrace you with his loving arms and comfort you. I'm so very sorry.......Wendy Collmar

Terijo Jones (Grosek)

June 25, 2011

Cal, Irene, and family...
It's truly been a shock to hear of BJ's passing. Even though I didn't know him well, as I was older, I still to this day, hear stories about him from the time you were in the Binghamton Ward.

His zest for life was incredible, and he we certainly be missed by a lot. I am grateful to at least have known him.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and his family at this most difficult time.

James and Gabriele Sorensen

June 25, 2011

Irene and Cal,we are sorry to hear of Ben's passing,our prayers are with you.Jim and Gabi Sorensen from the vestal ward .

Russ & Linda Grimmett

June 25, 2011

Irene and Cal, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family today. May you find peace and comfort from the Lord through friends and family. Your examples have meant so much to all of us and especially your children. You are loved. Russ & Linda Grimmett

Jennifer Hantsch- Molyneaux

June 25, 2011

I went to Vestal High School with BJ! He was an incredible person and friend. He proved that dreams can come true! He will be missed! My thoughts and condolences to his family.

mary jo albee

June 24, 2011

Teaching Ben at Vestal High School was indeed a privilege. Because of his intelligence, kindness, curiosity and sense of humor, each day was an adventure. The Titera/ Davanzo duo set off sparks in my classroom that never extinguished, just as they did to my heart which now hurts.

Mary Jo Albee (Binghamton, New York)

Alison Satterwhite

June 24, 2011

BJ was our friend and neighbor in NYC. He had such a zest for life and adventure. His smile was infectious and he will be missed very mcuh. Much love always to you Anne. You are in our prayers.

June 24, 2011

Irene & Cal,

Our thoughts are with you & our love is sent to strengthen you at this time. Please know how much we love you.

Rose-Mary & Mark

Amy Smith

June 24, 2011

My heart goes out to BJ's family and loved ones. He was an amazing friend and a good example. He had a heart of gold and I am so thankful to have known him. My sincere condolences to his family. You will be in my heart and prayers.

Jim & Vera James

June 24, 2011

A short life well lived is a memory to be treasured. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of trouble

Robert and Myrna Nelson

June 24, 2011

Cal and Irene,
Robert amd I send our heartfelt condolences. I remember BJ as a youngster in primary. Such a lot of energy in that small body, it doesn't surprise me a bit all the accomplishments and activities he was involved with.
You are living my greatest nightmare and I know you are doing it with grace, strength and dignity.
Our prayers are with you and your family.

Terri & Kevin Pepper

June 23, 2011

We are so saddened by B J's untimely departure from this earth. We are praying for Annie, the children, Cal, Irene, Marcus, Jamie, his sweet wife, and Adrain. Know that we love you and are here for you if ever you need us.

Jean-Claire Fitschen

June 23, 2011

My sincere condolences to Ben's family. Ben was such an incredible person. He will be missed.

Steve and Mary Hales

June 23, 2011

Cal and Irene,
BJ always made Binghamton Ward YM activities interesting. He was such a positive guy and always saw the good things in life. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this difficult time.

Mark Schultz

June 23, 2011

I'm so so sorry BJ passed away. I loved him. He was my wrestler at BYU. He was always so happy. What a great example of a human being. He was such a great man. At least I know he's home with his heavenly father. God Bless you and your family BJ. What an amazing man. He was truly a saint.

Drew Olsen

June 23, 2011

I remember his ability to connect with just about anyone he met and then proceed to become great friends with them. Wether it was a professor at school or a punk kid like me he could reach out and connect with everyone. We had some fun times skiing and fishing and living life to the fullest as many described him.

The Stradlings

June 23, 2011

Cal, Irene and Family,

We love you! We pray for you! You are such stalwart examples of strength and courage!

May you find comfort in the knowledge and blessings of eternal families. May you draw comfort, strength and courage from the love and prayers of so many not only today but in the days to come.

Dann and Charlotte

Ben taking a very rare rest in life along his Mt. Everest Trek

David Smith

June 23, 2011

BJ, You will be missed my friend. You made my life full. Full of adventure, full of fun, full of love, and life. Your departure seems too soon but what an amazing impact you made on us all.

Cal and Irene, you had an amazing son. He was a true friend. I could not have asked for a better one. He was a true gift to me and a blessing in my life. We thank you for the sharing of your son too so many. May the memory of his strength and deterimination help us all carry on and uplift us along the way. Love Dave

Ben and Dave "Khumba Ice Fall" Everest 2010

Dave Smith

June 23, 2011

Kathy Davanzo

June 23, 2011

Dear Titera Family
My family really got to know BJ during his wrestling career in Vestal NY. He always smiled big for the cameras as he pinned his apponent. He and my son Phil have remained good friends since High School even though miles seperated them. He did some work for me once and I asked him if I could pay him, he said make me a quilt, so I did and he took it to college with him.
BJ will be missed dearly by our family. What a wonderful man he was. God Bless you all.

Kevin and Karen Lane

June 23, 2011

Cal and Irene, you know how we felt about BJ. We always knew him as more than ordinary, and as I always said, he "had more charm than the law allowed." We are thinking of you and please know we will never forget him.

June 23, 2011

Anne, Irene and Cal. We cannot begin to understand the tragedies that impact our lives but we do want you to know we will continue to pray for your family.

Linda and Don Follet

Tony Policare

June 23, 2011

BJ was one of the most powerful young men that I ever had the opportunity to coach. His power was intelligence, skill, focus, compassion and certainly drive. He was as tough as they come and could melt you with his smile.

I learned so much from BJ, he will never know how much respect he had from me. I use his name often to inspire others.

The Vestal Wrestling Family extends thoughts and prayers to his family and friends.

Cyndy Carlton

June 23, 2011

I was in Ben's ward in NY. 2 of my children were in the seminary class with ben and Jamie that was taught by Pat Grosek. All the kids enjoyed being in that class and my 2 children are sad that Ben is gone. I still remember him and his smile and great sense of humor. He definitely touched my life. My prayers to his wife, children and the rest of his family.

Jay Marks

June 23, 2011

Praying for you everyday! I am speechless, and hope that you can be uplifted by the many prayers and wishes being offerd for you and your family. Jay

Gustavo Leal

June 23, 2011

Dear Cal & Irene,


BENJAMIN TITERA

What an incredible young man, accomplishing so much in such a short time. May your memories of him live in you as a constant reminder of his dynamic determination to be successful, may his life continue to be a motivation for those he left behind.

My love and prayers are with you.

Psalm 73:26
My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion forever.

Jillian O'Brien

June 23, 2011

I had the pleasure of working with Ben while he was at Real Networks, as I am at Comcast and Ben was a key part of our team. His infectious personality and fun spirited ways built a strong relationship team environment. I certainly know he made a lasting impression on the people he worked with everyday, as he had a pretty spectacular relationships with his team. He will be greatly missed by everyone.

Dan and Susan Youse

June 23, 2011

We offer our sincere condolences for your loss of BJ. We love and care about you and your family deeply. May you feel the Savior's love and comfort at this time of need.

Vickie Erickson

June 23, 2011

Prayers and blessings be with each of you at this time. At these times may you have the strength to get through another day, one day at a time. The Lord bless and keep you.

Kevin & Karen Lane

June 23, 2011

Dear Cal & Irene,
Our hearts go out to you. BJ was one of the bright spots during our time in Binghamton. May God be with you and his family during this very trying time.

Bryce Blanchard

June 23, 2011

Ben, I miss you a ton. I felt like you were a kindred spirit and enjoyed so much our interactions over the past year. My heart goes out to your family, children, and friends as they grieve your loss. You made an impact. Your intelligence, personality, smile and style were engaging. You were a renaissance man who has left us way too early. Wish we could have finished those deals... hope you are making a few now on the other side. God Bless!

Rebecca Harding

June 23, 2011

Such a tragic loss ~ my prayers are with the Titera family. I'll never forget Ben's smile, drive and enthusiasm for life.

Showing 1 - 54 of 54 results

Make a Donation
in BENJAMIN TITERA's name

Memorial Events
for BENJAMIN TITERA

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

CLOSED-Russon Brothers-Salt Lake

255 S. 200 E., Salt Lake City, UT 84111

How to support BENJAMIN's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor BENJAMIN TITERA's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more