In Loving Memory
Benjamin Michael Earle
February 21, 1983 — June 1, 2008
Ben passed away tragically on June, 2008 at the age of 25 while kayaking at Finn Creek near Avola. B.C.
Ben is survived by his loving wife Robin and two precious children, a daughter “Rio,” three years old and a new son “Finn,” age seven weeks of Clearwater.
Ben is also survived by his parents: Patrick (Linda), and Jennifer (Anthony); sister Stephanie; and brother Nathan; as well as grandparents and numerous relatives, all from Australia.
His Clearwater family: Dean and Lori Redman, Alissa (Steve) Tanner, Shawna Dougherty (Bobby Iio); and Doug Dougherty of Strathmore, Alta.
Ben was born in New South Wales and raised in Tasmania, Australia where he chose to study outdoor education. It was then that he discovered his love of paddling. He first arrived in Clearwater in 2004 when he was hired on as a whitewater raft guide at Interior Whitewater Expeditions; it was then that he met Robin who became the love of his life. Ben had a zest for life. He reached out and embraced many experiences and adventures. Ben was an outdoor enthusiast, particularly if water was involved. He was an expert paddler, a competent raft guide and a pretty good surfer. Ben also loved to travel and had seen a good portion of this world.
He touched the lives of those who knew him and has left a legacy in his two small children whom he loved dearly. He will always be remembered by family and countless good friends for his quick wit, easy smile and loving nature.
Ben was a practical young man who was not impressed by wealth or material things; rather, he found joy in simpler things like the company of family and good friends, a good bonfire, a good set of rapids and a nice cold beer.
Family and friends gathered on June 7th for a riverside memorial service to celebrate Ben’s life.