Ben H. Tanis

Oh My Friend Christine, I was so sorry to read of Ben's passing in the WMU newsletter. It has been many years since our time working together in the Borgess Lab. I pray that Our Heavenly Father may strengthen you and your family as you navigate this new stage in your life. Much love to you, Helene Slomp Stuurwold

Dear Chris I hold you in my heart right now as I know how much your heart is hurting. Ben was a wonderful man who did much for others and his community. He touched students lives and will be remembered by many. But you my dear will grieve the most and this I know from experience so I hold you close. Love Elaine

I didn´t realize until I heard of Ben´s unexpected passing this morning how much I had come to care for him and how fortunate I had been to know him during his last two years. Ben was such an impressive athlete and swimmer, but the spotlight was on my swimming when I was in the pool thanks to Ben. He kept a careful eye on me as a guard, preceded by his always making me feel that it was my presence at the pool that was what was most important to him and that he was most pleasantly situated if...

The pool at Borgess isn´t the same without Ben there. He is so truely missed. We swam next to each other a lot and loved having him help start my day with his smile and energy. He played great music for us and we all loved it while swimming. Thank you Ben for your kindness and the love you spread.