Richard "Ben" Connell

In Loving Memory of Richard "Ben" Connell

April 19, 1938 – July 31, 2025

Richard "Ben" Connell was born on April 19, 1938, in Ft. Washakie, Wyoming, and passed away peacefully on July 31, 2025, at the age of 87, after a courageous journey with Lewy Body Dementia.

Ben was a devoted husband, a proud father and grandfather, and a quietly remarkable man whose life left a lasting imprint on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He is survived by his wife, Arlene Connell; his children Tony Connell, Sheri Welch, and Sandra Heine; his stepson Jonathan Hooker; nine cherished grandchildren and six siblings. He is also lovingly remembered by his former wife, Charlotte Yelek (née Brown).

Ben grew up on a ranch on the Shoshone Reservation as the fourth of ten siblings. His childhood was shaped by wide Wyoming skies, the rhythm of ranch life, and a deep connection to the land. This is where Ben's strong work ethic began to take shape.

In 1959, Ben made his way to Loveland, Colorado, after a humorous but fateful decision to buy a Chevy while working at a Ford garage. What began as a setback became the start of something extraordinary. He joined Loveland Excavating-then just a small company of seven-where he quickly rose from pipe laborer to supervisor, mentored by two uncles-in-law who saw in him what many would come to see: a natural leader with uncommon intuition and grace under pressure.

At just 21, Ben faced a life-altering construction accident that left him severely burned. What followed was a long recovery-over 40 surgeries and skin grafts-but he never let it define him. While healing, he was brought into the office, where he learned the business side of construction and discovered a rare gift for estimating and strategy.

In 1969, following the passing of one of his uncles, Ben purchased half of Loveland Excavating. By 1982, he had become the full owner and renamed the company Connell Resources, Inc. Under his steady guidance and the culture of excellence he fostered, the company blossomed into a Northern Colorado cornerstone, now employing more than 275 people and continuing a legacy more than 80 years strong.

In 1989, Ben married Arlene, and they shared 37 years together. During that time they built a life filled with dear friendships, CSU football games, and quiet moments in places they loved-especially the sun-drenched lanai in Hawaii, where Ben could often be found scanning the ocean for whales with his binoculars in hand.

They shared many adventures-traveling, golfing, and road-tripping in their beloved motor coaches, eventually making a warm winter home in Rio Verde, Arizona. For Ben, the journey itself was often as joyful as the destination.

Though humble in demeanor, Ben was a respected leader in the construction world. He served on the Board of the Colorado Contractors Association and was honored as its President in 2004. He brought with him a refreshing spirit-welcoming innovation, lifting up smaller companies, and quietly reshaping the culture of the organization. True to his nature, he didn't enjoy the spotlight-so Arlene often helped craft the speeches he so graciously delivered.

Ben also had a heart for giving. After being introduced to Respite Care, Inc. by Arlene, he became a quiet but powerful supporter of their mission. Together, they donated land for both the Lemay site and, with his daughters, the land for the new building in Timnath-a gesture of love that will continue to serve children and families for generations to come.

While Ben's business success was significant, it was never what defined him. He was a family man-devoted, tender, proud. He loved deeply, worked with purpose, and gave quietly. His legacy is one of kindness, integrity, and quiet strength.

Ben's family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to the extraordinary caregivers who walked beside him over the past five years. Because of them, Ben was able to remain at home-just as he wished-and their care became part of his family's love story.

A Celebration of Life will be held on August 19th at 2:00 PM at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 7755 Greenstone Trail, Fort Collins, CO. All are welcome to come, remember, and honor this beautiful life. A reception will follow the memorial service in Redeemer's Fellowship Hall. If you are unable to attend the service in person, we invite you to watch it by going to Redeemer's website at https://www.redeemerconnect.com/ and clicking on the "Watch Live" button. Or, go directly to https://live.redeemerconnect.com/.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Respite Care, Inc., the Alzheimer's Association, or any organization supporting those affected by dementia. Your kindness will continue his quiet legacy of compassion.