"Ben Peter Geddert passed away November 27, 2008." So reads the opening line of the simple obituary for Ben in the Calgary Herald. It outlines his immediate family, including his faith families, but doesn't remind us of the contributions he made to the MHSA - especially its Calgary members.

Ben was an eager contributor to the genealogy special interest group, sharing his educator's perspective of Mennonite thinking and using that analytical ability to develop his family history. He forged a strong association with his sister, "Marth", in part so that this effort would have legacy through her ongoing pursuit of those interests.

Ben also took delight in uncovering family documents that showed the musical and diary contributions of his family. After carefully sharing their content, he entrusted the originals to the archives of the MHSA.

We will miss Ben's enthusiastic involvement and offer condolences to his family.

Ben Peter Geddert
b 31 Jan 1938 Lost River, Saskatchewan
d 27 Nov 2008 Calgary, Alberta
m Elsie Klassen
Parents: Heinrich & Maria (Nickel) Geddert
Siblings: Peter, Katie (m Janzen), Lena, Mary (m Warkentin), Dave, Sara (m Christopher), Henry, Martha (m Striker), Linda (m Bright)
Children: Darryl, Rodney
Grandchildren: Josiah, Brianna, Kaleb
Church affiliations: Coaldale Mennonite, Gem Mennonite & Foothills Mennonite churches