Ben Whelan (age 34) succumbed to a fire in his home on Friday, March 6. Ben was my nephew and I admired his refreshing zest for life. He was a certified arborist and world champion timber sports competitor. Ben loved being in nature with his family and furry friends. He could often be found practicing for competitions, fishing in Maple Lake, hunting for waterfowl, exploring in Alaska, and most recently, Australia. Ben loved with his whole heart and leaves behind his parents, Bill and Diane, and sister Nicki, plus many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and trees left to be treated and nature to be explored.

No parent should have to make final decisions after their child passes. The money raised will be used to honor Ben with a memorial event on May 2 (more info to follow).