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Benjamin Laney Obituary

Benjamin Paul Laney II peacefully passed away at his Boulder Creek home. He was born in New Mexico to Benjamin Paul Laney and Georgia McCormick. Ben was survived by his 6 children: Jennifer Laney-Adair, Benjamin Laney III, Jamin Laney, Angel Laney, Dylan Laney and Zimmerman Laney; his 3 brothers: Ed Laney, of Texas, Max White of Texas, Lee Laney of New Mexico, and his 4 sisters: Janis Sipes of Madera, Dee Tamayo of Madera, Diane Colbert of Texas, and Paula Laney of Colorado; 15 grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild, and many more extended family. Ben made lasting impressions, strong connections and will be missed by many. He was an accomplished musician, beautiful writer, and a loving Father. An amazing spirit! His memory will forever live on in those who love him. His children have chosen a fond word to remember him by: zany, tender, kind-hearted, wacky, and love, love, loving. We love you Dad and know that you'll always be with us.

A celebration of his life will be held at 3:00pm on Sunday, June 20th.

Location: 13111 Pine Street, Boulder Creek, Ca. 95006

Memorial services pending for Madera, Ca., as well as a music tribute show in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

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

Published by Santa Cruz Sentinel on Jun. 19, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Benjamin Laney

Not sure what to say?





Brenda Woods

June 13, 2024

Your memory lives on, Ben. I´m still singing along with your music. Brenda Woods

linda goulett

September 24, 2021

ben was a really good man, a fine musician- I have his cd-,a great dancer and I am so glad I knew him for decades. I will miss his smile and piano key head band on his hat

Critter

December 14, 2020

Just recently found out about Ben's passing, I love that man. We were at sequoia high school in Redwood City. Stayed with him his Mom and stepdad Frank in redwood city. I remember Jennifer when little baby, her Lynn and uncle Richard. We lost touch in early 70's. Had good times in Palo Alto. MBJ Ranch room pizza parlor, Linton plaza, Mom's saloon, and the Ally,happy hour. I love,I'll see you soon, jim adams,critter.

Brenda Woods

August 2, 2010

Thirty years ago I watched Ben perform with the band Crystal in Santa Cruz; he had the aura of an angel. I have fond memories of our time together. Now he has gone from this earth, but will live on in our hearts forever. RIP Ben - I will never forget you.

240 Pacifica

July 18, 2010

Memorial July 13,2010
240 Pacifica
Brookdale, Ca.

Attented: Don Spencer, Bobby Carr,Bettina,Jesalynn Nash,Dee Tamayo,Jenifer & Dale Adair,Angel,Ben & Troyan Jamin Paul(Lil Ben)Laney
R.Maurice Howard and Wife,Danny. Dylan,Angel,Scott, Brad,Blake,Brett Bowman Darragh Lawrance And Many Other Friends Attented, That Loved You So Much Brother Ben. You Will Be in Our Hearts Forever.

Arbor Vitae Cemetery 1301 Roberts Ave.

July 18, 2010

Uncle Bob & Carol Lee,Grover & Carol Day,Pat & Alice Turner,Charles & Sandy Day,Angel Scott Brad, Blake, Brett Bowman,Debbie Roach Green,Charlie Crony,Jenifer Adair & Family,Jesalynn Nash, Gary Nash, Ernie & Dee Tamayo,Dylan Laney I Love You Dad, Jamin Laney,Janis Sipes, Richard Kelly, Bonito Olivia Wyatt Olivia,Shelly Vasquez,Sicily Nash Brian, Brett Qualls,Mary Arreondo, Devera Stringer,Dave Lucio,Beverley Gutierrez. Officiating: Don Spencer (Good Friend) An amazing spirit His memory will forever live on in those who love him. His children have chosen fond words to remember him by: zany tender,kind-hearted,wacky,and love,love,loving. We love you Dad and know that you'll always be with us.Loving Son,We will Always Love You Brother, and Father. At 10:00a.m. July 3,2010

Celebration Of Life 6-20-2010

July 18, 2010

Celebration Of Life:

Dee Tamayo, I Love You Brother.
Max White,Jamin Leon Laney(Cover Me With Love) Please.
Shanna Marie Laney,Bonito Olivia Wyatt Olivia,John Edward Laney, Lani Lopez,Ciara Lopez,Jessica Chavira,Pamala Olivia,Lula Silva,Bobby Carr,Katie Busche,Dayne Miller Sonntag,
Renee Lovelace (408)784-5065) Stuart Monley, S. Raj,Susie Raj,Richard Kelly,Janis Sipes,
Bens former Bass Player Mike Banning,Devera Stringer,Dave Lucio,Kim Laney Salisbury,Mellow Russell,Blessed Be Ben, Chor & John Beisner,Daniel Cory,Robert R. Cathy & Sean Woorlend,Gaylene Buck,Donny Ensminger,Reverend Swiss Heart,Linda Evans,Darragh Lawrance,(Heaven Won),Maralisa Howze,Woody Bell,Edward Critchloa,Rhesa Edinson III,Mike & Cindy,Rochelle Rodriques Amaya, Kevin,Jeff Strawm,(Pickin Buddy)Kevin Hamm,Erin Madaoney,David Mug,Anna Tri,Sory Cordeli,Rick Duncan,Debra Panasuh,Larry C.,Marx Olga Land,Josh Yanc,Zack Land,Bluzar Blur,Allison,Bill Rush,Joy Rush,Michael Martya,Angie Smith,Robert Faremba. Nikola Faremba,I'll Miss You) Kim Johnnives,Jerry & Kimberley Loveytt,Much Brandon & Emily Luv Ya,Gnna Marie Janson,Cawl Ayres, Grateful Listener,Mike D.,Sarah Wildflower,Elesha Lopez,Troyan & Ben Laney III & IV,Karen Robey & Bosco, Don Spencer Love You "Gentle Ben",Michael Kline,Steve Jerik,C. Hall,Girtan Joe,Jesalynn Nash, Sicily Brett Brian Qualls, H.Clowser, Jamin Paul (aka Ben IV )Kimberley Ann Laney, Stephine Powers,Rik,Dayne,Michael Armstrong,Sarah Nollies,LiL Cathy H.(Hobbs New Mexico)
(And a Very Sweet & Dear Friend) Aprylle Gilbert and Jim Leman Grand Children Faith,Frankie,D.J., Jesse, R.J., Angel, Brad, Blake, Brett Bowman(Daughter Angel Husband Scott
(Daughter Dylan) Daughter)Jenifer Husband Dale Adair.(Troyan Laney's Mom and Dad).

Joe Girtan

July 18, 2010

I admired your musicianship a friend to the music Indeed. RSP 6-20-10

G Hall

July 18, 2010

Known by same as Loud Laney because you could hear him from one end to the other He honored me with his friendship and his music. 6-20-10

Jesalynn Nash

July 18, 2010

He was an amazing Uncle, that I will never 4 get in a million years, his smile personality and everthing about him brightened up everyone's day.
I Love You so much Uncle Ben.6-20-10

George Galt

July 18, 2010

I got to play with you many times,Ben and it was always an honor and joy Thank You Dear Guy. 6-20-10

Max White

July 18, 2010

Max your brother, May the Angels speak and sing your name. 6-20-10

Karen Robey-Bosco

July 18, 2010

I'll Miss You My Friend!

Cathy Heizer

July 18, 2010

I sure am gonna Miss You Pau! Thankx for Everthing Ben Laney "LiL"

Sarah Noliles

July 18, 2010

We live on in the hearts and memories, of the lives we touch forever and ever Amen

Michael Armstrong

July 18, 2010

Who else could get me to go to Karaoke at the Brookdale Lodge? Love You Ben, Miss You

Dayne

July 18, 2010

Ben, Thank You for being You, What Amazing Gift you were to all Your Friend.
Love

Rik

July 18, 2010

Ben you touched my heart forever.
My Dear Friend I will see you soon!
Love

Stephanie Powers

July 18, 2010

Remembering your smile, your music,your unconditional love...Always

H. Clowser

July 18, 2010

Fond Memories of You, Brother god Bless You. And keep You in his Loving arms.

Jamin Paul Laney

July 18, 2010

Grandpa Ben! I miss playing piano with you and I love you. (aka Ben IV age 5)

Troyan Laney

July 18, 2010

Thank You for being apart of my life. Looking forward to seeing glimpses of you n your family. Your spirit will live on in my memories & in their eyes. xoxo

Janis Sipes

July 18, 2010

I'll Miss You Ben, Love Sis.

Lulu Silva

July 18, 2010

I'll Miss You!

Mike Banning

July 18, 2010

Ben's Former Bass player

Katie Bushe

July 18, 2010

I'll Miss You!

Bobby Carr

July 18, 2010

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Bonito & Wyatt Olivia

July 18, 2010

I Love you Uncle Ben :)

Shanna Marie Laney

July 18, 2010

I Love You Uncle Ben!

Steve Jerik

July 18, 2010

Our Loss Is Gods Gain!
There Is A New, Powerful Voice In The Choir that Sings His Praises! God Bless You Ben For Blessing Us With Your Presence Love Forever.

Jessica Chavira

July 18, 2010

Love You Uncle Ben

Don Spencer

July 18, 2010

-Love You "Gentle Ben"

Terrie Ross

July 17, 2010

At times like this the words are quite often the same...
one just does not kno' what to say...the words always seem so impersonal..Ben's loss - tears me up...I wish to extend My Deepest and Most sincerest Condolences , to Ben's Family and friends Especially his sister Dee and Brother-in-law Ernie { whom always managed to be there for Ben- no matter what}...in this Great Loss..To kno' Ben was to Love Ben, there was just no way around it...Without a doubt He indeed was an Angel we entertained here on earth....Ben, had this Charmin' infectious Personality...he was noble in many ways..Ben had so much compassion for all of mankind...Heck he had the Capacity to love the Universe...His Character and soul shined in every poem and song he ever composed...That lives on!! I recall many happy occasions, that clearly captured the fire in his Eyes when he announced the births of his Daughter's Angel & Dylan... ohhh man there was no match for his love for each of his children...I still remember his famous line, when I would call to his Sister Dee's "Greetings Earthling" oh he always managed to get a chuckle out of me...I will never forget when I went to Dee's to visit and he was there. we stayed outside talkin' for quite some time reminiscin'... we had a great visit . wished his time on earth could of been elongated. He was like a big brother to me..His righteous heart to Forgive -the most important lesson in life, won him a seat next to our Mighty Fathers..I will surely Miss him, and his Dynamic hugs..Ben I Love You My Friend...a sweet Eternal slumber has taken you from us..Sleep, Eat, drink and Sing with The Celestial Beings...while you help prepare the table for those that are first on the invitation.....May you all find Peace and comfort knowin' that others battle this grief right along side of you..and that we loved Ben and Know that Ben's Love lives on in each of you..the Candle of love lights up and lives in your heart..I extended my Time on this ...I could take forever and share sooo much more and make some of my memories yours too!! Namaste..All My Love, Terrie and Family @}-'-,

Charles Day

July 7, 2010

I'll always have memories of the times you sang songs to my daughter and me and our younger years, I'm blessed to have known you. Now you are with our other loved ones watching over all of us.Love you always Ben from your Uncle Charles

melissa laney

July 5, 2010

thank you for all the memories!!! sing with the angels now uncle benny....

melissa laney

July 4, 2010

I know in the past few years we haven't talked much and I just got in contact with you before you passed but I loved you and will continue loving you with all my heart uncle benny

Jaimie B.

July 4, 2010

Ben, it has been over 30 years since we met in Santa Cruz. Your children were babies, some not yet born. Long time since I saw you and we hung out, but I have never forgotten the great times that we shared. I always asked you to sing "Cold half bare trees," over and over again and you always did. Time passes so quickly, but you have been and will always be in my memories. Love your old friend Jaimie.

Rob Fishback

June 30, 2010

My archives are full of Laney memories. Many nights spent sitting by a campfire singing, telling stories and drinking beer or coffee. I will remember listening to you crafting and writing your songs. And not to forget your wacky sense of humor. Thank you Ben, I will not forget.

angela lewis

June 29, 2010

you will be dearly missed as will your wonderful music .. i am so greatful that i got to grow up hearing it . i love u and miss you

Robert Ridge

June 29, 2010

I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your father, grandfather, brother, Uncle & cousin. I've known Georgia & Dee for about 39 years. I started knowing Max when I married into the Robbins family. I don't really remember meeting Ben, but I might have, my memory is not the best. He sounded like a pretty cool guy. Just cherish all the good thoughts of him and I'm sure he will have a great homecoming to the Lord!

Peggy Shifflett

June 28, 2010

Ben we love you so, we have lost a bright light in our life, sing loud and strong for God so we may all hear love you Ben

Misty (Nay) Dodson (white)

June 27, 2010

I would always love to hear when Ben was coming over to play his guitar. We were blessed to have him and his music in our lives. Until we meet again, I smile as the choir of angels grows.........

Bobby Leon White

June 27, 2010

I know that Ben can't hear me, but I knew him well, he was my best friend all my life. Even though we went our seperate ways many times, we never lost touch. All the roads we traveled and the songs we sang, and the late night coffee shop conversations are still alive and well in my memories. I never met a better man than Ben Laney. I miss him very much, I hope to see him soon in the place where there is no more parting of friends. He was my brother.

Karen White

June 27, 2010

Sorry I never got to know you Ben. It sounds like you were quite the talented man. Rest in peace Ben and keep an eye on your family. They need you!

Ben Dee & Ed 1983

Ed Laney

June 27, 2010

I will always love you Brother you'll forever be in my heart.

Kim Laney Salisbury

June 25, 2010

Dearest Ben, I miss the conversations we didn't finish. You taught us how fragile life is. I feel blessed with the greatest gift of all, our son. I know you will live on in your children, your music and in the many lives you touched. Keep singing, we're listening. Love, Kim

Jesalynn Nash

June 25, 2010

Uncle Ben you are an amazing person and you will forever be in my heart. You were always so true to yourself and you told me to follow my dreams and for you I will. You are a dream catcher. You are a remarkable insperation to me and very many other people. I wish I could have said goodbye but I know you knew that I loved you. I love you Uncle Ben! Love Always~ Hunny

We love you Uncle Ben!

Sicily Qualls

June 25, 2010

To the best uncle in the world;
You have left this place for a better one. One day we will meet again. I'm sorry that my twins didn't have the chance to meet you when you were here, but they will know & have you in their hearts through all of my cherished memories & the woderful moments Jess holds in her heart...I miss you Uncle Ben & We love you!
P.S you will never be forgotten.

Dee Tamayo

June 25, 2010

Don't Cry For Me

As I sat on my porch
Looking up in the sky
Tears flowing down my face

I notice a bright Glowing light
Shining down on me
I know it's you my big brother
Giving me a sign

Your voice whispering in the wind
Say's to me
Please don't cry little sister
Please don't cry

As for me
I'm an angel in the sky
Looking over you

So please little sister
Please don't cry
Promise me no more tears
As I don't want to cry

I have wrote this for you Ben!
(I Love You Sis)

Jennifer Laney-Adair

June 25, 2010

Dad you have shown me how REMARKABLE Gods plan is.I know i will see you again one day and we will finally all live in that paradise.I Love you so so much~Jennifer

Max White

June 25, 2010

My brother, I Love you and will keep you in my heart forever, you were my rock and my best friend, may the angels speak and say your name, sing on my brother, sing on. Max

candie white

June 25, 2010

sorry for your loss. We will miss you uncle ben dearly! I will always remember sitting there watching you play your music and sitting beside you playing the spoons. Your music always amazed me. love you candie white

My Crazy Dreams CD Release Poster

Jamin Laney

June 24, 2010

I will miss you Dad! I promise to live 'My Crazy Dreams' just as you did. You always made me feel important no matter what I did and I love you for that! ~Jaybo

Dad, Mom, and Me

Jamin Laney

June 24, 2010

Dylan and her Daddy

Dylan Laney

June 24, 2010

Dad- I love, love, love you and I know that your spirit will always be with me. Your darling daughter Dylan.

Diane Colbert

June 24, 2010

Love and miss ya Bro! Sing the angles a tune.

October 4th, 2008

Dee & Ernie Tamayo

June 24, 2010

"You'll Be Forever In My Heart"
Will Have A Party In Heaven
I Miss You So,So,So Much!
Luv Sarge (Sis)

Your memory lives on in your children.

Angel Laney

June 24, 2010

I miss you Dad and I can't wait to see you again. It will be a great day of celebration when we all get back together and that is what keeps me going through this sad time. You're forever in my heart. I love, love, love you. Love, Angel

June 20, 2010

I am sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in your memories of him.

June 19, 2010

MAY YOUR CHERISHED MEMORIES FOREVER REMAIN IN YOUR HEARTS OF YOUR LOVED ONE.

Donny Ensminger

June 19, 2010

You were such a wonderful man,friend, and musician, You will truly be missed by all. Rest in peace, your finally home Ben

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