Benjamin Sever

Benjamin F. Sever CHESAPEAKE - Benjamin F. Sever, 83, lost his courageous battle with cancer surrounded by his daughters, whom he lovingly referred to as 1, 2, and 3, on Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2009. Born Oct. 1, 1925, in Miami, Fla., Benjamin was the son of the late Henry W. Sever and Martha Sieloff. He was predeceased by his wife, Etta Parker Sever. Ben was a World War II veteran of the U.S. Navy where he retired as a chief after 20 years of service. After retiring from the Navy, he continued serving his country as a civil service employee in security at Naval Security Group Activity Northwest, Chesapeake. He was a member of Great Bridge Baptist Church, the Fleet Reserve Branch 40, Meals on Wheels, and the American Red Cross. Ben was a friend to many, and all who knew him considered themselves blessed. He loved his family, friends, fishing, working in his shop, and talking with people. He never met a stranger. He leaves behind to cherish his memory three daughters, Gloria "Jeanie" Janik, Carol Thayer and husband David, and Becky Hampton and husband Glenn; a sister, Micki Bracken, five grandchildren, four great- grandchildren and two great- great-grandchildren. A funeral will be conducted at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 4, 2009, at the Great Bridge Chapel of Oman Funeral Home, 653 Cedar Road, Chesapeake. Interment will follow in Chesapeake Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends Saturday from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the funeral home. The family wishes to express their gratitude to Sentara Hospice, especially Charlotte, during this journey. Also, without the support of his many friends this time would have been much more difficult for his girls. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Sentara Hospice, 535 Independence Parkway, Suite 200, Chesapeake, VA 23320. Friends are also invited to send condolences and sign the online guestbook at www.omanfh.com.