Benjamin Douglas Heim
July 31, 1986 - September 19, 2011

"So sorry to hear about your loss. I don't have the words, but know my thoughts and prayers are with you all..."

"To the Family, Our sympathy goes out to you during this time. May you find peace in knowing that Ben is in Heaven with his dad. May everyone embrace you in love as you journey through this sorrow. Blessings, Shirley Heim Barnes and Tom Barnes"

"Jackie and Jeff, I am so sorry for your tragic loss. My heart goes out to you in this time of sorrow. You are in my thoughts and prayers."

"Jackie, My heart goes out to all of you for the loss of your beautiful and charming child, Ben! Although, I did not know him, I do know Darci and wanted to extend my deepest sympathy as a mother that also lost a 25-year-old son. I am so sorry for your loss and pain .... Take good care of yourself! If you ever want to talk with me -- please contact me. (c) 507-272-8144 I am with you in thought and prayer every step of the way."

"Jackie, my heart goes out to you. I'm so sorry to hear about Ben. I remember you talking about Benny so much. My thoughts and prayers are with you and Jeff. Such a load for you to carry!"

"I knew Ben mostly by helping him or waiting on him at Eastwood Bank. I was also at Good Sport Bar & Grill when he had a seisure, I am not a medical professional, but I did what I could to help him (moving things in the bar to help the ambulance go faster, too help him). But mostly just at the bank, through drive thru. He is such a sweet & kind person, he & his brother Jeff both!!! I have always enjoyed seeing his smiling face :') He's just one of those people you don't forget, are always happy to see & just really like! Now his smile will be Greatly missed by all of us at Eastwood Bank. God Bless you Ben & live in Peace."

"I didn't know Ben personally. I don't even know the Heim family personally. I'm just familiar with the Elba area and know some of Ben's friends. All I can say to Ben's family and friends is that your grief is felt from afar and that Ben's spirit must've been a sight to behold. God couldn't wait to take something so beautiful as Ben and put him in heaven where he belongs. God Bless."

"There are no words that can take away the pain of losing a son and especially when you experienced the loss of his father only two years ago. I hope in some way knowing that even strangers care will help in sameway. You are in our thougths and prayers."

"Jackie ~ There are no words that can express our deepest sympathy. We understand the emotions of losing a child, and cannot express our sorrow that you were chosen to endure these moments. A mothers' love is pure and everlasting, Ben knows that he remains in your heart in his Heavenly home. John 10:27-29 "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand." May you find comfort in knowing that they live together in eternal life, In the grace of the Lord, The Mauskemo family"

"So sorry to hear of your tragic loss. Please find some comfort in knowing you and yours are in our thoughts and prayers."

"Ben: I never met you, but I heard so many beautiful things about you from your cousin Kristina, whom I love dearly and have the honor to be her friend. You are in a better place, at peace, and free. I hope these words bring some light and comfort to your loved ones, for it is them who stay behind in pain and sorrow: "You live on earth only for a few short years which you call an incarnation, and then you leave your body as an outworn dress, and go for refreshment to your true home in the Spirit." ~ White Eagle ~ "

"There are no words that will make things easier. I am so sorry for your loss. I didn't know Ben that well but I heard a lot about him from my son Carson. He drove truck for my dad Jerry Holtegaard. Carson and Jerry thought so much of Ben. He is going to be missed by so many. He was a great kid and had a heart of gold. My thoughts are with you all."

"jackie sorry for your loss of your son ben.my thoughts and prayers go out to you and jeff.Doug and ben are both watching over you and jeff god bless."

"I only knew Ben from business. He was always coming from work to pick up flowers to brighten someone's day. I remember the day he came in after his dad had passed and he had said.....Well, its time to go have some words with dad. He always had a giant smile and a story to go with it. He will be greatly missed by many because he touched so many lives. Prayers to the family during this time."

"Many people probably think that everyone knew Benny because we live in a small town. Fact of the matter is we were all lucky enough to know Ben because we live in a small town. He was such an outgoing person who was willing to befriend anyone and sit down and have an hour long talk with someone he just met. He touched the lives of everyone he came in contact with. He was such a great guy and you will be truly missed; but never forgotten. Keep an eye out for me while you're up there buddy! We'll be seeing you one day. I use to be fear getting older but now more so then ever my biggest fear is dying young, it's just not fair... you went way to early Ben! Hugs and thoughts being sent to your mom and brother in this very difficult time."

"I've known the Heim family since I was a little girl. I'm so sorry to hear about Ben. I remember him when we were kids but didn't have the pleasure of knowing him well as an adult. I do know he was loved by many people and will be greatly missed. Hugs to Jackie and everyone in the family. Take peace knowing that Doug is there taking care of him."

"We are so sorry for your loss. Ben was such a good person and always had a smile on his face. We will Continue to keep the family in our thoughts and prayers."

"Just wanted to say thank you Benny.......as we look back on the events of this week it seems cold and almost insensitive to think or even say this but I truly do thank you Benny. Thank you for picking THAT particular spot, THAT particular instant and THAT particular intersection. At that time of the day who knows what could have happened, a school bus full of kids, a gramma and grampa on their way to have coffee with a friend, a mom just out running last minute errands. But that's you Benny, the kind and thoughtful person you are......Altho it breaks our hearts to lose you, rest peacefully my friend knowing "it could have been so much worse".............you saved 4 lives inside a building that may not have otherwise had a chance. We love you Benny! "

"Jackie, Jeff, Rocky, and family, I am sorry to hear about Ben. It seems like it was just yesterday when he was 3 years old teaching me how to run the VCR at your house. He was a very nice guy, had a wonderful smile, and very kind eyes like his father. My thoughts and prayers are with your family."

"Jackie & Jeff, There are no words that can express our deepest sympathy. Ben was a great guy always full of smiles and just wanting to always chat when any of us saw him. Jackie and Jeff, may God give you the strength to go through this difficult time, just know there are many people that care. He will be missed by many."

"Jackie -Jeff and family You have been in my family's prayers. I remember so much about Ben- back when I babysat him- and now all grown up- running in to him- he would have sooo much to say and always have such a huge smile on his face. Growing up in Elba- Jeff and Ben were like little brother's to me and Doug was the funny guy- that my dad always had around. Jackie - has a laugh that is unforgettable- even through these hard times- I still hear the laugh. So many may ask- how do you get through? The answer is simple- God. when the days seem long and dark- turn to him- and he will heal you. Pray- remember all the good times- we are all going to see him again- and when we do- he will have a big smile next to his Dad- with an even bigger smile. God Bless you all- and Jackie or Jeff- if you ever need anything- please I am here for you. Life on earth is short- but life in Heaven is eternal."

"I did not know benny that well or the heim family but I do remember always seeing benny in school he was always friendly and had a smile on his face...my uncle mike and my dad were both good friends with Doug and knew Ben... I'm very sorry for your loss I pray that you find peace in his memories may god bless you he will be missed dearly by many."

"Jackie, We are saddened to hear of your loss. Death of one's child due to an automobile accident is extremely painful due to it's suddenness. We can empathize with your experience and will keep you and your family in our prayers. Don & Karen Loeffelholz"

"Jackie and Jeff.. words cannot express the sorrow.. we will never understand the why.. but know that I and many other friends and family are here for you with love and hugs. My most sincere sympathies to you both and everyone that loved Ben."

"Oh man Ben where to begin. We are all going to miss you so much. You were a wonderful guy to me Benny. When I first moved into my apartment you were there to make me my first home made meal and I still have the dishes you let me have since you had an extra set. I remember when we broiled our chicken wraps and the smoke detetors wouldn't stop going off. You could always make me laugh. We could sit around and talk for hours. I still can't believe you're gone. It happened all too quickly and all too soon. Rest In Peace Ben. You will never be forgotten I can promise you that! Watch over your mom and brother during this tough time. Jackie and Jeff are in my thoughts and prayers."

"Ben- I am with many here, just loss for words, shocked that this has happened to you, a great person at such a young age. I'm sure he has bigger plans for you up there. You and your dad can now watch over your brother and mother, giving them both the strength to carry on. Jackie and Jeff- I have kept you both in my prayers these past couple of days. I can't imagine what you two have been through, may they both (Doug and Ben) shed strength upon you through this difficult time."

"-Ben, May you spread your wings and watch over us all. Keep an eye out for your family and loved ones. Your heart and memories will forever be with us all. You will certainly be missed by all of us. -My thoughts and prayers go out to your family and the st.charles community. God bless everyone. Miss ya Ben. -Ashley"

"To the Heim Family. So sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you."

"Dear Jackie & Jeff & all the family, Please accept our deepest sympathy in this second tragedy in your lives. May God Bless you all, & know you are all in our thougts & prayers. Tom & Olivia Heim"

"I had the pleasure of student teaching in St. Charles during Ben's Junior year of high school. He always had a smile on his face and made it a great experience. A few years later, I ended up living in St. Charles, where we again connected. It was great to see him around and catch up with what he was up to. You are in my thoughts and prayers, I especially pray that you are able to find peace from God during this horrible time."

"Jackie and Jeff, Larry and I didn't know Ben very well but what we do know is that he was a very nice, personable young gentleman who always had a smile when he saw you. He will be greatly missed by all that know him. God bless him and your family."

"Jackie, Jeff and family. Shocking to hear the news of Ben's accident and sudden death. It has been many years since we all hung out together and all the fun times we had. Do recall the visits and the boys in their younger years. You remain in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time . God comfort you and keep you in HIS care in the days to come. If there is anything we can do to help, do not hesitate to contact us. In Deepest Sympathy and Love -- Jeff and Donna"

"Hey Benny, There is sooo much to be said, but so little space... We were all sit'n around last night talk'n about the night we played scruffy down in Elba. That guy took off chase'n ya threw the corn field, but he never caught ya!! You were one of the craziest, funnest, and most caring guys i knew, you would have done anything for a friend, all they had to do was ask.. I'll be dedicating my run in the cannon falls derby on saturday to you buddy!!! My thoughts and prayers go out to you Jackie and Jeff, may he spread his wings and and sore to the heavens above where he and Dougie will forever be reunited...."

"Ben.. There is nothing more tragic than losing someone with a heart as big as yours, especially so early. We didn't know eachother very well, but you got me through quite a few hard times just with your kind words and positive vibes alone. I appreciate so much that I got to be in your presence the few times that I did. Your smile was seriously contagious and you made almost any situation feel light as air. You will be truly missed and remembered forever. Seems like you stole a place in a lot of people's hearts and we're all lucky to hold that forever! My thoughts are with your family & all the many people you touched throughout your life. Miss you already, Ben!"

"Ben - You had the same twinkle in your eye your dad had, always with a quick grin that went ear to ear. When I think of you now, I find myself thinking back to your very early years, when everything seemed pretty simple. I have many memories of you at your Grandma's house when I still lived there. I looked at the pictures I have of you as a toddler just last night. In fact one of my strongest memories from that time is of trying to teach you how to swim - I'm not sure you were too interested. Brian and I still joke about the time you replied "you're not the boss of me" when I tried to give you some unwanted behavior advice when you were probably 4 years old. It's clear from all the posts that throughout your life you had a gift for making and keeping friends. They are blessed to have known you. Jackie and Jeff - I don't even know where to begin. I can't imagine the pain you must be going through. To say "Life's not fair" just doesn't capture it. Please know that your family and friends are here for you. Peace and love."

"Jackie and Jeff, I am very sadden for your loss (heartbroken)! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family."

"Ben, was a great and amazing friend always had a smile on his face, he will truly be missed and forever in our hearts. he is a sweet and caring person i will miss and honor him forever ben we will miss you, and hope to see you again on the other side!!"

"May God comfort you and wrap his arms around you and your family as you endure another great loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you."

"Bill, Rocky, Jackie, Jeff and all others-I am so sorry for your loss of Ben. It sounds like he was a lot like his dad and was a great person to be around. I am sure he is with his dad up there saying "Ain't that somethin" and catching up. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Bill and Rocky-I remember all of the good times I had as a kid out at your house and at ours after snowmobiling or whatever. I was telling my kids how you loved my mom's chocolate chip cookies! To lose a son and grandson in such a short amount of time is unbelievable to me. When my grandpa died at 89 in 1990 and losing my dad at 52 in 1994, never made sense to me and I struggle with this also. Jackie-I can remember being at your house when Doug picked you up for Prom. Ben sounds a lot like his dad, the twinkle in his eye and the smile that was contagious. It sounds like you have a lot of people to lean on. Again, I am so sorry for you loss and take care."

"My deepest, deepest sympathies to the Heim family. Such a tragedy."

"We both send our deepest heartfelt sympathies to your family at this very difficult time. We are deeply saddened by your loss. You are in our prayers and thoughts daily Much care from Colorado, Amy and Lucy"

"somebody said they saw a double rainbow. maybe it was dad reaching down to help him. who well ever know. but he is safe now jackie and jeff, i cant even think of what pain you must be going through. we are all thinking of you and god bless."

"I have looked at this screen for awhile thinking of what to write. Words do not come easy, but the thoughts of how sad I feel for the family are deep. Ben was such a fun kid and I enjoyed so many talks we shared over the years. After his wrestling years were done, he would be at the top of my list of alumni supporters. He never left the program as a fan and was a frequent attendee to matches. After the tough loss of Doug, Ben and I really connected and the wrestling family was there and we will always be there. We take care of each other. This just seems so unreal. If I can do anything or help in anyway, please let me know. I would stand in the wind for this whole family. Good luck with some tough days ahead. Just please know that you have huge valleys of support and love. ....Scott Kobs"

"You will be missed. You were a great person with a great smile and a great laugh."

""

"Oh Benny, We are going to miss you so much. You were like my "other" son. I keep thinking about all of the fabulous times we've had thru the years! Your beautiful smile and your infectious laugh will be missed by many. Please take care of your mamma and your brother during this terribly difficult time. You and your dad have a job to do and I'm confident you'll get it done! Rest in peace you beautiful boy. We'll see you again some day! Jackie and Jeff, I can't express how much Benny will be missed but take comfort in knowing he's with his dad................"

"We are so saddened by the your sudden loss of Ben..... Such a shock to every one. We certainly have Ben's family and friends in our thoughts and prayers. Keep all your memories of Ben tucked deep within your hearts and he will always be with you."

"I'm so sorry for your loss. Ben was such an out-going, funny guy. He will be missed. I can't imagine what you are going through. Stay strong and know that you and Jeff are in the thoughts and prayers of so many people."

"We are so sorry for your loss. Just know that you and Jeff are in the thoughts and prayers of many people. "

"Jackie and Jeff and family, You are in our thoughts and prayers as you are going through this very difficult time. He was a brother to our kids, and became a "son" to Todd and I. His contagious smile, and wonderful laugh will be missed as him and Jordan would come into the shop constantly picking at each other! We loved him very much and he will certainly be missed by us all. God Bless"

"Jackie, my heart goes out to you and your family. Please let me know if you need anything! sending hugs your way! with love, Toni McCaleb"

"Jackie and Family. I was saddened to hear of your loss. You and your family are in my prayers."

"Jeff and Jackie, you two are in our thoughts and prayers. May God give you strength to get through this. Ben was a wonderful, happy, amazing, caring, loving person. He had a contagious smile. When he smiled, you couldn't help but smile yourself then laugh. Ben was loved by everyone who met him. He will be missed very much. God bless you both."

"Jackie and Jeff: You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. If there is anything I can do, please let me know. God bless and I am so sorry for your loss."

"Jackie & Jeff... I am so sorry to hear about another tragic accident in your family. You now have the best two gaurdian angels you could ever ask for. I'm still at loss for words and also still in shock. What I remember best about Ben is... he always had such a bright smile on his face, and was such a nice guy. He will be forever missed!!! My thoughts and prayers are with your whole family at this very difficult time. God Bless Your Family!! <3"

"Benny boy. You were always a very kind and thoughtful friend with a big smile no matter what. I will always miss the crazy times we had together from the late nights at Haas's house to the snowmobiling trips in northern MN. Jackie and Jeff, my thoughts and prayers go out to you both. I can't imaging the loss you feeling right now. May God bless the both of you."

"Jackie and Jeff, My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time of such saddness. Ben will be missed by everyone. All my love to you."

"Ben - We will miss your smiling face, and your infectious laugh! Your giving personality and your uplifting spirit! You had a character about you that can be matched by no other! You surrounded yourself with many loving individuals and it shows in the tributes being paid to you over and over again. You will be missed a great deal, by a great many people! Jackie and Jeff - Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Find comfort in the many friends that will surround you in the coming days! Love, The Fenske's"

"Jackie and Jeff: You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I am so sorry for your loss."

"Jackie and Jeff you all have endured more than one family should have to and we can only hope our prayers give you the strength to make it through all this. Heaven now has the greatest Father and Son bullshitters to ever have blessed us with their friendship. Ben's big heart and desire to help will be missed. Stacy will miss Bens hugs and I will miss the stories of his latest adventure or missing car keys. WE LOVE YOU BOTH and may God grant you strength."

"Ben, its not gonna be the same without you!!! You touched so may people and you had a huge heart!!! I will never forget your smile and the way you always made me laugh. I went and visited the site today, it was a hard thing to deal with and i know your in a good place and now you and your dad can watch over your mom and Jeff and the rest of your family. Im gonna miss the late night talks and telling you to behave lol... I love n miss you always n 4ever!!! Im never gonna forget you, I'll be seeing you when I get there!"

"Oh Heimer, I can't believe you're gone =( I will cherish the memories we have with each other.I could always count on you being there for me and I wanted to thank you for being such an amazing friend to me. When you were going through some rough times you still always managed to keep "that smile" on your face. I won't forget the unforgettable smile =) Going to miss you Bud but I will never forget how much a easy loving caring person you were to me & others.You will always have a place in my heart.May God give your mom and lil bro the strength to get through this! <3"

"Benny, Were gonna miss u bud! We know your up there with your dad watching over your family and friends. You left behind alot of good memories that we'll never forget.We'll miss you very much. Jackie and Jeff our thoughts and prayers are with you!"

"Dear Joann, Jackie and Jeff--the sadness and grief you are feeling at this time is hard to conceive. Your family and Ben will be in our prayers. Love, Paul & Kay Loeffelholz "

"Although we didn't know him we are acquainted with Ben's Grandfather through mutual friends Wayne and Sharon Woxland! We are so sorry for your loss it can never be explained what the almighty has planned for Ben! God bless you all! Love Gary and Connie"

"Although we didn't know him we are acquainted with Ben's Grandfather through mutual friends Wayne and Sharon Woxland! We are so sorry for your loss it can never be explained what the almighty has planned for Ben! God bless you all! Love Gary and Connie"

"Our family is so saddened by your loss. Our prayer is that God will comfort you and watch over you during this very difficult time."

"Oh Benny- you were the light of my life when you were born. Over 25 years of your laugh, over 25 years of your smile, over 25 years of sharing many personal and family memories. Now you have a much more difficult part of your life a head of you- that is watching and guiding all of us down here. Please watch over your mom and Jeff, but the rest of us too. I am one of many to know that my life rests in your hands. I love you and Miss You already Buddy!!"