Benny Roger Minow “Ben”, age 75, passed away in the early morning hours of July 21, 2020, after a short, but courageous battle with cancer. Ben’s wishes were to return home from Mayo, to the ranch, his home of 75 years. He was surrounded by his loving wife and children at the time of his passing. Ben had a passion for every facet of the ranch, but above all, he loved his family the very most.
Ben was born December 17, 1944 to Sam and Anne (Nenow) Minow in Miles City, Montana. Ben was born the second of four children. His childhood was spent working alongside his parents and siblings on the ranch in which his grandparents had homesteaded in 1913, after making the journey from Bulgaria. Early school years were attended at the Cross S country school, with high school continuing at PRCDHS in Broadus, Montana, where he held various positions for both his class and student council. 4-H participation and being a member of Rise and Shine club, was a way of social life and learning for Ben and his sisters. He was an active member of the FFA chapter for all four years and held the position of state Vice President. Both 4-H and FFA remained very near and dear to him, as he continued to mentor young people in both organizations throughout the years. After completing high school, he began college at Montana State University and graduated with degrees in Economics and Ag Business in 1966. While obtaining his degree, he was a member of the Alpha Gamma RHO Fraternity, Alpha Zeta and was head resident in the dorms. During his college years, he and Mary Lou Malone were married and their first daughter, Shelley, was born in 1966. While interviewing for jobs after college, he decided on a position with Caterpillar, but during interim, his parents asked that he come back to the ranch to help for the summer. The decision was made to stay at the ranch long term and eventually take it over. Years later, he always joked he was still at the ranch “helping out”. Triplet girls, Tammy, Teresa and Tracy, arrived in 1969, Stephanie was born in 1974 and finally a boy, Greg, in 1977. Ben and Mary Lou divorced in 1980. On August 27, 1983, Ben and Brenda (Potter) Giacometto were married. With this union, they blended their nine children into one family and in 1984, welcomed a daughter, Krista. Ben and Brenda were married just short of 37 years, through many ups and a few downs. Side by side, they worked hard to improve the ranch, trying to stay abreast of ag technology and advancements. In later years, they enjoyed traveling and spending time in Arizona with friends.
Diversity and a passion to serve his community was very apparent throughout Ben’s lifetime. He was strong in his faith and was a member of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church of Broadus, where he was a member of the church council. He served in many different capacities, including the SCS, ASCS, School, Fair and FHA boards. Being a State Deputy Brand Inspector for 45 years, was a position he was very proud of. Brand inspecting led to the purchase of a portable scale, which he used for numerous ranchers. From there, he began his venture into trucking cattle and grain. In 1973, Ben earned his pilots license in a PA18A Cub. He loved flying and it gave him great joy to leave the ground to check on cattle, water tanks, pipelines, bulls, etc. or to fly over the neighbors house to give a wing wave. He didn’t know a stranger, loved good conversation and will be deeply missed. He was also proud of his Bulgarian heritage and ethnic dishes.
Ben is survived by his wife Brenda, children, Shelley (Tracey) Zastoupil, Tammy (Mark) Gnerer, Teresa (Dennis) Dorvall, Tracy (Gilbert) Speelman, Stephanie (Jestin) Nedens, Greg (Alicia) Minow, Krista (Josh) Graff, Tom (Donna) Giacometto, Roxanna Killens (Ira), Tammy (Todd) Rismon, 24 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. Sisters MaryAnn Stabio, Pat (Neal) Sanburn, nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents Sam and Anne, brother John, brother-in-law Vic Stabio, granddaughter Kelsey and numerous family members.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, July 26, 2020 from 2:00-6:00 p.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Funeral services will be held on Monday, July 27, 2020 at 10:30 a.m. at the family ranch, 18 Minow Rd., Olive, MT. These services are public and the family encourages anyone who would like to attend. Interment will follow in the Custer County Cemetery in Miles City. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
Memorials in Ben’s honor may be made to the Broadus Volunteer Fire Department or Our Savior’s Lutheran Church of Broadus. An FFA scholarship will be established in Ben’s honor at a later date.
18 Minow Road
Olive, MT 59343
Estimated time from Miles City to location is approximately 1.5 hours.
Heading south from Miles city on Highway 59, turn east on gravel road at Coalwood between mile marker 55 and 56 on Coalwood Road (GPS directions may label it Hay Creek Road still). Travel east for 7.7 miles until coming to a T, head north (left) for 2.9 miles down Mizpah Road. The Mizpah road will turn to the East and changes to Cross S Road, remain on this road for 3.6 miles until you come to another curve that heads south , passing by an old white school house. 1 mile after turning south on curve, there will be a black mailbox with a wagon wheel and Minow Ranch sign, turn East (left) and follow driveway into location 1.5 miles.
Estimated time from Broadus to location is approximately 50 Minutes- 1 hour.
From 4-way stop in Broadus, head East on Holt Street, it will curve and head North and change to Powderville West Road, going past cemetery. Continue on Powderville West Road for approximately 13 miles until T. Remain on Powderville West road curving towards the East (right). Travel 2 miles to Y in road where white signs with community member names are posted. Turn again to the North (left) onto Cross S Road. Continue on the Cross S Road for 8.9 miles until you come to black mail box on a Wagon wheel with Minow Ranch sign. Turn East onto driveway, go 1.5 miles to destination.
Tom and Judy Collins says
We were so sorry to hear about Ben. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Rick and Dee Abbott says
To each of Ben’s family members: We were deeply saddened to learn of Ben’s passing. We pray that God gives each of you comfort, peace and solace. Keeping you in our prayers during the coming days, weeks and months.
Esther Nelson says
Oh I must say we were sadden to hear about Ben , May God be with you ALL and be of comfort through the coming days..
Ern,Esther& Terry Nelson
Carol Schneidt says
My thoughts and prayers for all of Ben’s family! He was a great guy and will be greatly missed~
Tammy Pecha says
So sorry for your loss of Ben ,you are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Rhonda says
One of the truest visionaries of what a farm and ranch should look like, be like, and what it could become. A man of character to build a strong and loving family, and have room to love and support neighbors. Your laughter is heard in this picture, it’s what I will remember most with the smile attached. Thank you for my first trip ever in a plane and the butterflies like a roller coaster. Thank you for the winters of snowmobile parties and the amazing cracking fireplace to warm up to. Thank you for allowing Stephanie and I to build a raft (that wasn’t going to work,) but we had an imagination to try. Thank you for having your daughters pick us up at times and take us to the bus stop. All this I wish I could have, should have told you- how much your friendship meant to me and my family. May God Bless and keep you, may your family feel comfort from all of our memories and grief as we share the burden. You will be remembered well, Ben. 🙏🏽♥️💔
Tom & Kathy says
Our heartfelt sympathies go out to Ben’s family. May God comfort each of you with his promises. Krista Tom and I are sending you all our love and extra hugs!!
Anita Wetherelt says
Our thoughts & prayers are with all of y ou! So very sorry to hear of his passing. Love went your way.
Sylvia and Darold says
So sorry to hear … he is free of pain… may you all find strength to get through this.. prayers.
Laurie Janssen Claypool and family says
To Ben’s family: we are very sorry to hear about his courageous battle and loss to cancer. Our deepest sympathy to you all. Thoughts and prayers 🙏 🙏 to each of you during this difficult time!
Hold onto those precious memories forever.
Phyllis Landa says
Ben was my super friend, after Mike passed away and I had no idea how to run the round baler , he came over and rode with me and watch me make a few cone shaped bales until I got it !! Never forget !! !will miss him sooo much !!
Floyd Huckins says
Brenda and all of Ben’s kids and family,
I’m so sorry to hear of Ben’s passing. We all lost a good man. I had the utmost respect for Ben and always enjoyed his wisdom, down to earth way, and that quick straight faced wit…you had to be paying attention to keep up with him. My heart goes out to you all.
Kurt and Julie Collins says
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. He was such a wonderful guy and will be deeply missed by many. We will remember him fondly.
Diana Edwards says
To all the Minows……we are shocked and saddened by the passing of Ben. He has been a lifetime friend to both of us and he will be missed by so many, besides his family. Please know, Brenda and all the kids, that you are in our thoughts and prayers and thankful that Ben is no longer in pain. Francis and Diana Edwards
Tom & Ann Emmons says
We are so sorry to hear of Ben’s passing. He was a big part of this community for many years. He will be missed.
Cindy May says
To all of Ben’s family, I am so very sorry for your loss. I spent many happy hours with the Minow family in high school. Hugs and prayers to all of you.
Glenda Flint says
Brenda and all of the rest of Ben’s family…..I’m so sorry for your loss. Sending my prayers and caring thoughts to all of you.
Norm and Julie says
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Tom and Lillian Ostendorf says
There are no words to say how sorry we are about Ben’s passing. He was a dear friend and great neighbor. May God give you comfort in this time of loss.
Ken and Peggy says
Ben was one in a million, we had deep respect for him. Just so very sorry
bill janssen says
What Rhonda said. Had the pleasure of knowing Ben in several capacities. He always had that smile and sometimes a comment or two. To his entire family I send my sincere condolences. Always thought Ben had some of the nicest crossbred calves I have seen. He was a good rancher and father/family man.
Carol Hanrahan says
To Brenda and all of Ben’s family, you’re in my thoughts and prayers during the difficult times ahead. Ben was a great guy, a friend to everyone. He will be missed by the community he helped in many ways. God Speed …..
Carol Mellor Hanrahan (Randy)
Jan Evans says
Love and prayers to you all. Ben was such a good man. I wish it wasn’t his time to be an angel. He will be missed by a family and a community.
Marshall and Patty Williams says
Very sorry to hear of Bens passing. He was a true believer of the values of agriculture and the importance of helping youth get involved in it. He touched many lives on many levels.
Bobbi Ballou says
Brenda and family. I’m so sorry for your loss. Hugs
Gwen Gamrath Strub says
His passing is like losing another piece of my childhood, fond memories with kids, the fair… I’m so very sorry for your loss, he was a good man.
Ardelle and Denny Jurica says
Denny and I have many memories of a lifetime in Ben’s life especially in his youth and younger life. God bless his family at this time. We were very sad to hear he is gone. It hardly seems possible.
SALLY A. BORLA says
I AM DEEPLY SADDENED TO HEAR OF BEN’S PASSING. WE WERE ALL GOOD FRIENDS IN HIGH SCHOOL AND HAD SO MUCH FUN. HE WAS ALWAYS FRIENDLY AND HAPPY TO SEE YOU. HE WILL BE MISSED BEYOND WORDS AND YES, IT DOESN’T SEEM POSSIBLE HE IS GONE. TO BRENDA AND ALL OF BEN’S FAMILY, MY HEART GOES OUT TO YOU. GOD BLESS
Bunny& Gary Miller says
When I heard about his battle it made my heart hurt for all of you. We are so sad as he was a special friend to us.
Gerald & Janet Himelspach says
Brenda and all of Ben’s children, we are shocked and so sad to hear of Ben’s passing. We will cherish our lifetime of memories with Ben and his family, a really good friend. Our thoughts and prayers are for you all and may your memories sustain you in this time of grief. A good man has left us to soon.
SharLa Lalum says
Brian Russiff; SharLa Russiff Lalum (Steve & Andrew):
Brenda and family: we are shocked and very sad to hear about Ben. Brian and I have fond memories of Ben and all of you growing up together on the Mizpah and Cross S. He will leave a huge whole in our community and will be dearly missed. Know you’re in our thoughts and prayers.
Sandy & Ric Rabe says
You are in our thoughts and prayers. May God wrap His loving arms around you and give your comfort.
Jane & Les Thompson says
So saddened to hear of Ben’s sudden passing. Our hearts ache for all of the family and send our love to everyone, especially thinking of you Brenda in this very sad time.
Dolores Meidinger Willson says
To all of Ben’s family,
My heart goes out to all of you. May you find comfort in each other and all the wonderful memories.
Teddy Sharp says
Brenda and Family: Our prayers all with all of you .
Walter/ArLynn Archer says
Brenda and all the family,
We are so sorry to learn of Ben’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Deb Schmeling says
We were saddened to hear about Ben. He was such a positive person. May God wrap His loving arms around you with comfort, peace and love. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Howard Moths Family
Doug and Lucy Benge says
Brenda and all Minow family:
Lucy and I are very sorry to learn of Ben’s passing. We were friends and community neighbors back in my farm days. The Minow family were very loyal and much appreciated clients throughout our lives. Ben was an excellent operator, keen thinker, one of the nicest guys I ever knew. He will be missed. Best wishes to all.
Doug and Lucy Benge
Dewey Hurick says
One he’ll of a nice man, can’t believe it, so sorry for the family, however I think of the minnows almost every day because I was given flower seeds from his mother which I planted around the garden and the little daisies (yellow) bloom every year.
Dee Mobley says
Visiting with Ben once about travel and learning that he and Brenda had been on a seemingly too short vacation, he said he had to get home early cuz he had forgotten to take his photo album of the ranch along…………… I asked him if he also had recordings of his cows mooing along with the album , and his eyes twinkled with merriment. I wish I’d run into Ben more often as his quick wit was fun to try to match. He was unique, fun, and a sharp cookie. Til we meet again……………
Bub and Carlene Gaskill says
Remembering Ben from my fair board days from which Ben had already retired, but you would have never guessed it, he was there to volunteer his time, advice,and resources,be it transporting sale animals or anything else that needed done. Condolences to all of Ben’s family.
LauraLee Ullrich says
We cannot begin to express our sorrow for the loss of Ben. When I first joined the Cross S 4H club he was my idol! He was always so kind and patient with us younger ones! I grew up knowing his folks and John,Mary Ann and Pat. Had chances to be involved in all of his kids lives through 4-H, church and school, and know that they are all fine people. And then he married Brenda, my second mom! I loved watching their love story unfold. His legacy is his wonderful family, his very progressive and well kept ranch and the hundreds of kind gestures to his community! We will miss his quick wit and twinkling eyes and his spot On the Cross S. Rest In Peace Ben.
in all of his kids lives through 4-H and church and school
Leo and Jo Jurica says
It is with great sadness we say goodbye to Ben, a long time friend and neighbor through generations. Leo‘s parents , us, and our kids have valued that friendship . It was always a treat to visit with Ben. Our condolences to Brenda and all the Minow children.
Helen, Bob & LynnetteJanssen says
Helen, Bob and I are so greatly saddened by Ben’s passing. He was such a good neighbor and friend, as well as a true role model for the not-so-young people! I can remember hearing Lew say more than once: “Well, if Ben’s planting, we should be, too!“ The constant twinkle in Ben’s eye will be fondly remembered, and his legacy will continue through all his children and grandchildren. Much love to you, Brenda, Krista, and all the rest of the family.
Jerry & Gayle Struck says
We are sorry to hear of Ben’s passing, He will be missed by all.
Martha and Mike Mintz says
One time I was home from college and answered when Ben called for my dad, probably to see who got more rain as was their regular discussion. When I asked who was calling he said “if you don’t know who this is you’ve been gone too long, kid.” And isn’t that the truth. He was a great neighbor, a wonderful friend to our family and a fantastic human. To say he will be missed fails to encompass the void he leaves behind. My heart goes out to the whole Minow family.
Don and Vernetta says
We were just shocked and so very sorry to hear about our dear Ben!!! We will miss the hell out of him!! To you Brenda and all you kids please know how very sorry we feel for all of you, just keep his memory’s close to your hearts because he left behind so many of them. Love and prayers to all of you.
Linda Hodgson says
Brenda and all of Ben’s family. I was so sad to learn of Ben’s passing. I so enjoyed waiting on both of you at the bank. My prayers go out to all of you.
Fred and Rosetta Christopher says
Prayers for all of you. Such a shock to us. We will miss his sweet smile.
Bruce Klapmeier says
Shocked and so sorry to hear of Bens passing. Seems like just the other day I visited with him while in Miles seeing my folks. Many good memory’s of harvest and riding motorcycles in the evening around the Cross S community. RIP Ben.
MaryAnn Stabio says
Losing Ben has left a huge hole in my heart. He was the leader of the family. We all looked up to him for advice or his opinion. Our world lost a special person and I lost my beloved brother. MaryAnn
Cammie, Brad, Derek, Emily & Amelia Waits says
Treasure all the special times you shared with your husband, father and grandfather for they have now become your memories! 🙏❤️
Shannon Janssen says
Brenda, Krista and family, I am so sorry to learn of Ben’s passing. I remember him as such a kind soul. I hope warm memories can provide some comfort.
John and Allyson Kane says
What a beautiful tribute to Ben. We really enjoyed time spent with you all. Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead, and memories to forever hold in your hearts. Sincerely, John and Allyson
Sarah Wagner says
So very sorry to hear of Ben’s passing! He was a good neighbor and always knew you.
Claudette Oster Neal says
Thoughts and prayers for the Minow family.
Virginia Huckins says
Powder River lost another great man. I’m so sorry for your loss. Ginger Huckins
Mary Snell says
My sincere sympathies to all! Ben will be missed immensely!!
Ron & Karen Dorvall says
We are so sorry for your loss, what a great family 🙏
Ryan and Cindy Braley (Collins) says
So sorry to hear if Bens passing. My heart goes out to all his family and friends. My prayers are with you at this difficult time. God speed. 💔
Doug Stewart says
Our prayers and sympathy to all the family. Sad to lose another good friend, family man, husband, father and grandfather.
Tuffy and I always enjoyed the friendship and visiting with Ben.
Last time we visited with Ben, Tuffy and Ben told each other how good they looked, never changing.
Ben said ‘one of these days we are going to have to quit lying to one another.
Gods Peace and Comfort to Brenda and all of Ben’s family.
Doug & Tuffy Stewart
Linda H says
Thoughts and prayers to the family. I am so sorry for your loss. I’m sure you have many wonderful memories of a very wonderful man.
Bill & Sandy Jensen says
Our sincere sympathy goes out to all of Ben’s family. He was a kind and good man and will be missed by all who knew him.
Bill & Sandy Jensen
Pat and Neal Sanburn says
I was blessed to have Ben as my brother. Many memories from childhood to senior moments to laugh and sometimes cry about! His memory will keep our family united and though its hard to imagine, we will make more memories in the future. His love for his whole family was immeasurable as was our love for him.
Ed and Bev Schaffer says
We are so sad to hear of Ben’s passing, my heart just hurts for all of you💔. Our love to you Brenda and to all of the family…..Ben is going to be so missed, that smile and twinkle in his eye.
Bonnie Russiff Schott says
So very sorry to hear this news. Words seem so futile at times like this. Just know that you all are in my thoughts and prayers. May God bless you all especially right now – and the days and nights to come. May the many, many wonderful and happy memories left behind – become the treasures that you hold dear. And he will live on, forever and always – in your hearts…
Dott Taylor says
Prayers and love to the family of Ben’s. Special love to you Brenda. May God bless you all.
Jim and Leona Nenow says
Brenda, Mary Ann and Patsy, plus all of your families, we are so saddened and sorry, and we send our sympathies and prayers on the loss of our dear Benny! We loved that guy and, fortunately, got to tell him so just recently! He was the best of the best!♥️ Be proud!
Bernice Rolfson says
My thoughts and prayers go out to Brenda and family. A special prayer for Mary Ann as I know how much she loved her brother.
TJ and Tana Kiel says
Brenda and family-
We are so sorry to hear of Ben’s passing. He was such a neat man and will be forever remembered by many! Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Nick and Krista Vernon says
I’m so sorry to hear of Ben’s passing. I only spent a short time working for him and Brenda, but they left an impression on me that has lasted a lifetime. I’m grateful for my time with him. Minnow Family, please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sharyn Wallace says
Gone way to soon. Keeping you all in my heart.
Randy and Aletta Shannon says
So sorry to hear about Ben. I enjoyed visiting with him at county functions and bull sales we had in common. He was and still is an inspiration. Hard to believe. The Minnow family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Cathy and Wayne Gamrath says
We were so sorry to hear of Benny’s illness and death. Due to COVID19 we will be unable to give our condolences in person but especially reach out to Stephanie and Greg. Benny was a thoroughly good person and he will be missed.
teresa geib bacon says
I am sorry for your loss, my prayers and condolences are with you all
Mary Janssen says
So pleased he had his family close these last couple of months and could make it home to the ranch for his final days. I too remember him most during shipping time especially this last Oct. as he was ready to go and needed a signature he said you’re a Janssen you can sign. We will miss the kind intelligent and wonderful man. My prayers with you Brenda, Krista and all of your family
Shawn and Wendy Richards says
So sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Marie Scoville says
So sorry to hear about Ben. My prayers and best wishes to all the family.
Marie Gotfredson
Carolyn Hays says
Brenda and kids-so very sorry to hear of Ben’s passing. I didn’t know him as well as I would have liked to but I know he was a wonderful man. Broadus has lost 2 very wonderful people in a very short time as we just lost Francis Taylor also. May all of you find peace in your memories of Ben and keep him close in your hearts. Thinking of you.
Rae Ellen Bird says
So much to admire about Ben. His work ethic, personality, and knowledge of everything agriculture, just to name a few. If there was a Ben Minow Book of Knowledge, it would be a large volume, and everyone would want a copy. Truly great neighbors, Ben and Brenda, for many years to Steve Bird and more recently to our son Dan. We will miss a friend and always treasure our visits with him. Ed and Rae Ellen Bird
Cody Morris says
To Ben’s family: Words cannot express how saddened I am to hear of Ben’s passing! What a wonderful man. I cannot attend the funeral because of a doctor’s appointment…but my thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time of loss! Love you, Brenda! Praying for you all.
Cody Morris
Ted and Cathy Elgin says
We are so sorry we are unable to attend Ben’s funeral today. Our thoughts and prayers will be with all the family today and in the coming days. As I said before, we are so glad we had a great visit with him at the fair last year. Our community lost a very outstanding man.
Linda & Randy Parker says
Brenda and Family,
We were sorry to hear of Ben passing.
Praying for you.
Jerry & Peggy Stanley says
Deepest Sympathy in your loss of Ben. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Sandy Mentikov Shelton says
So sorry for your loss, keeping you in my prayers.
Mike & Patsy Davis says
Our sincere sympathy to you, Brenda, & all the Family. We always enjoyed visiting with you and Ben, and he always took that time. Ben was such a nice gentle man, and he will sorely be missed by all of southeastern Montana, where his legacy lives on.
Deb & Bob Hagemeister says
So sorry for your loss, we are keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers.
Sharon and Lester Clements says
Brenda and family. We are so saddened to hear of Ben’s passing. May you find peace and comfort in your beautiful memories. Hugs and Gods Blessings.
Voni Tally says
Brenda & family- wanted to express our sympathy for your loss. Pray God will comfort you in your continued time of need. Voni & Scott Tally
Andrita Harris says
Deepest Sympathy and Condolences to Ben’s Family. Prayers sending. RIP COWBOY.
say hi o my Dad late (Lee Harris)
Floyd & Myra Gabel says
So very sorry about Bens’ passing. We didn’t know Ben real well, but we did know he was a fine person and will be missed by a lot of people. So sorry.
Don and Vernetta says
Thank you Brenda, family and stevansons for sharing Bens funeral service . It was a beautiful way to lay Ben to rest. So sorry we couldn’t be there. Watching it on the Internet makes it seem real now. He will be forever missed. Rest in peace Ben.
Konnie Brown-Shuey says
So sorry to hear of the loss of Ben. He was a great friend and neighbor to many. Treasure the many memories you have and keep his stories and adventures alive for all the future generations. May you feel God’s arms around your family during this time of great loss.
Don E Potter says
Don and I were so sorry to hear of Ben’s passing. Jo shared news with us today. Hoping you and the rest of your family are comforted by good care , good friends and family.