Ben Essary of Stevensville, MT, passed away on December 20, 2024, after a brief illness. He was born on May 10, 1943, in Lexington, TN, to Henry and Addie Essary and was the eldest of four children raised on the family farm.
After graduating from high school, Ben enlisted in the United States Air Force. While stationed at a radar site in northern Montana, he met and married Pamela Alex. During his military service, Ben earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees and achieved the rank of Captain. He and Pam welcomed two children, Lisa and Glen, during his Air Force career.
Following twenty-two years of military service, Ben transitioned to a second career in security at Department of Energy facilities in Richland, WA; Aiken, SC; and Idaho Falls, ID. He later served as Vice President at Day & Zimmerman, a government contracting firm. In 1998, Ben retired fully and settled with Pam in Stevensville, MT.
In retirement, Ben embraced the outdoors through camping, rafting, and fishing. He also enjoyed playing bluegrass music and made many dear friends among fellow bluegrassers. He and Pam cherished their home in the Bitterroot Valley, where they welcomed friends and family over the years.
Ben is survived by his children, Lisa (Mike) Wineke and Glen Essary; his brother Johnny Essary; grandchildren James (Marlene) Armstrong, Joe (Sam) Wineke, Beth Wineke, and Iva Essary; and great-grandchild Lucas Armstrong. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Pam Essary; his parents Addie and Henry Essary; sisters Judy Hatchett and Joan Hones; and grandson William Hyde.
A celebration of Ben’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on July 26, 2025, at Faith Lutheran Church in Hamilton, MT.