Benny Lew Armentrout, 79, our beloved Dad and Grandpa passed away from difficulties due to colon cancer and set about his trek to be with The Lord on November 22, 2025. He was born January 1946 in Portland, Oregon to his late parents Benjamin and Lucy Armentrout and was a proud member of the Choctaw Nation. It is with his fond memories from the early age of 7, Ben grew up in Texas and Oklahoma. Beginning in the town of Grand Falls, Texas, then moving to Royalty, Texas at age 10. At age 12, he and his family moved back to the birthplace of his mother, Atoka, Oklahoma, where he remained until the age of 17. Within that time there was a lifelong bond created with the family of Slick and Slyvia Morris of Hugo, Oklahoma who adopted and treated him like their own son. In 1963, at the age of 17, Ben enlisted in the United States Navy for a 6-year service obligation. Where he served ready and willing to give up his life in service to our country. He was stationed aboard the USS Ticonderoga, Attack Aircraft Carrier (CVA) – 14. In 1969, he was honorably discharged. In 1972, Ben moved to Montana with his not so little brother Big John. He wound up staying for the rest of his life. 1980 was a pivotal point for Ben’s future. He met the love of his life, Estelle (Russell) Armentrout. They married on November 14, 1980, until her passing on March 2022. That day his heart was broken. During his marriage with Estelle, he assumed responsibility for two children. At that time, 9-year-old Haroldine Fisher and newborn Cliff Jon Russell whom he raised as his own. That same year, Ben closed a chapter in his life, to open another, one about sobriety on March 20, 1980. He never let us forget about that day; he chose us over alcohol. Ben started his 41-year career quest learning about substance abuse and the effect it has on families. He began as a detoxification tech which led to him becoming a full-fledged Licensed Addictions Counselor (LAC) for the Northern Cheyenne Tribe. Ben graduated in 1995 from Dull Knife Community College and from Salish Kootenai College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services in 1998. Ben was an avid cribbage and chess player; he always had a board at the ready. He spent years working on cars and was pretty good at it. He would sing to his children, even after they were grown, he would sing to Estelle, Just Beyond the Moon by Tex Ritter. Ben was baptized last year at Crazy Head Springs by the Lutheran Church Circle of Life, for it was his faith in Jesus Christ that never wavered and kept his spirit up through the tough times. He was very proud of LaRenzo in his achievements of graduating from law school, earning his Master’s in Public Administration and military service, especially when LaRenzo earned his E-5 Rank – Sergeant. Ben is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Estelle (Russell) Armentrout, his parents Benjamin and Lucy Armentrout, adopted parents Slick and Slyvia Morris, brothers John and Frank Armentrout, Niece, Allison Littlewhiteman. Ben is survived by his daughter Haroldine Fisher and son, Cliff Jon (Bernadette) Russell, Grandkids, LaRenzo W. Roanbear, Kylen, Karson, Cross and Chayla Russell, Mahya and Callie Littlewhiteman, Nephews, John Armentrout Jr., and Benjamin Armentrout, Nieces, Diandra Littlewhiteman and Francis Armentrout. Sister-in-law Shirley (Morris) Armentrout. Adopted brothers, Davis Wounded Eye Sr., Myron (Cheryl) Littlebird, Close Friends John Retski, and John Hackenburg. Special thanks to William Littlewolf. Also, special thanks to the staff of Advanced Care in Billings, MT and Laurel’s Rehabilitation Center. The relationship that we had with Ben doesn’t end here, he is with God and the Lord Jesus Christ, his beloved wife Estelle, as well as friends and family that have gone before him. During his many years on earth, he has touch people’s hearts and spirits with love, devotion and empathy. We will miss you and cherish our memories with you forever. We know you and mother are with us every day.
Benny L. Armentrout, age 79, of Busby
January 13, 1946 – November 22, 2025
Diane Spotted Elk Spotted says
I’m sorry to hear of Ben’s passing. Prayers for his journey to his loved ones Estell and good friends, including my brother Tony Prairiebear. Journey well my friend.
Earlene Clown and Family says
Prayers and Condolences to his children. Rest In Peace Ben.
Donna Bearcomesout says
Condolences to Ben’s family
John Ross Bradley says
I cannot imagine a better friend and colleague than Mr. Ben Armentrout. His was a career or service and a life of many kinds of experience. He stood by family and friends with unwavering loyalty and decency.
He took on the difficult tasks of providing skilled and caring help to many, many people. His work served the community as well. He carefully prepared himself for his professional life, going the extra distance in training and education.
A very courageous man, Ben did not flinch from stepping up to assist those who might have difficult finding their voice. Fare well, Ben.
He is greatly missed.
Cliff Jon Russell and family says says
We would like to invite everyone to a potluck on Sunday night for viewing of my dad’s body and a celebration dinner for his life on Monday. Please contact my Sister Haroldine for more information. Please reach out to my Sister, she needs support to help her get through our loss. My dad was a great man, I only hope that one day I can be just as great as a dad to my boys. Thank you all for knowing my dad!!! ♥️
Henry S says
I had the privilege of spending time with Ben in the early 1990’s, early in my sobriety journey. He, along with Myron were my beacons, who I wanted to be like when I grew up (in sobriety). I not only spent time with Ben in groups but also, got to travel to a few sobriety events with him. He was so easy going and I felt that he cared. I will always remember that welcoming smile and that easy laugh. Cliff Jon and Haroldine, GOD bless you and the rest of your family as you get ready to say your goodbyes until you all see him again.
Sheri Bement says
Ben was my counselor when I got sober and I worked with him at the NC Recovery Center. He was my mentor and he was an awesome boss! I have a lot of respect for him and will never forget his sober guidance and wisdom and stories. My Prayers and condolences Haroldine and Cliff Jon. May Creator comfort you both at this time.
Joleen Spang says
I worked with Ben and he was so much fun. Not a dull moment. Condolences to your family I am sure your wife is happy in heaven with you.
Joleen Spang and Alan
Friend says
Anchors aweigh, my boy, anchors aweigh!
Until we meet again here’s wishing
you a happy journey home!
Let Larry Henry know that them “Fishing Boats” still smell like money!
Andrita Harris says
Deepest sympathy and condolences for Ben’s Family. So sorry to hear.
Ben was my supervisor at NCRC. We would go over what was entered in RPMS.
PRAYERS
Carrie Little Bird says
My Condolences
Bella Gentry says
I worked with Ben at One Health and he was instrumental in starting addiction services there. I’m sorry to hear he is gone. He was a wonderful person.
James D. Jr. & Ann King says
Condolences on the passing of your father/ grandfather. Ben was a strong presence to the Busby and wider reservation community. His influence and steady presence was profound. What an amazing role model.
Ruth Risingsun Phillips says
My deepest sympathy to Haroldine, and Cliff John, and family. May God comfort you, and give you peace during this difficult time.
Cindy Stanton says
Im sorry to hear of Ben’s passing. He touched many lives.
Chris Valentine says
I am so shocked to learn of Ben’s death. he was such a good friend for so many years. We worked together from about 1988 to 2002. He and Estelle visited me in Birney and here in Sheridan. We always laughed and joked. My heart goes out to Haroldine and all the family, I will truly miss my wonderful dear friend.