Ben R. Blackburn, age 79, passed away on September 11, 2021, in Springville Utah after a short battle with black lung disease and cancer.

Ben was born on June 9, 1942 in Ogden, Utah to Edgar and Thelma Blackburn.  He was raised in Carbon County and attended school in Price, Utah.  He joined the National Guard in 1960.  Upon returning, he married the love of his life, Renee Jorgensen on January 6, 1962. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Los Angeles temple.

In 1964, Ben and Renee moved to California where he learned home construction with his favorite Uncle Del Blackburn and worked at an electronic shop.  After returning to Utah in 1969, Ben worked as a coal miner for 29 years.  He also found time to build and remodel several homes, install swimming pools and ran B&K Auto Body shop.  He became a Jack of all trades.

Ben was a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.  He held many positions in the church and especially enjoyed working with the youth.  Ben and Renee served a service mission in Hawaii at the Polynesian Cultural Center.  At the end of their mission, Ben received the Top Hand award.  Ben enjoyed dedicating time to his community and became Mayor of Wellington City in 2010 and was very proud of what he accomplished during his term.

Although his life was work oriented, Ben loved his family and friends and would go to great lengths to spend time with them.  He loved his time following his grandkids around, especially if it included sports.  He made a lot of friends traveling around cheering them on and always had money available for the snack bar for the kids.  He rarely missed a game and enjoyed this time of his life.

Ben is survived by his wife, Renee, children, Kurt (Jeanette) Blackburn, Kraig (Melissa) Blackburn, Kris (Todd) Hackney; brothers, Wyler Jay and Don; 15 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.  He is preceded in death by his parents, Edgar and Thelma; brother Keith; daughter, Kayrene Houskeeper and great grandchild, Ryker Houskeeper.

Due to Covid there will be a Graveside Service  on Saturday, September 18, 2021, 11:00 a.m. Wellington City Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Mitchell Funeral Home where friends are always welcome daily and may share memories online at www.mitchellfuneralhome.net.