Benjamin Ryan Liesch, 27

Benjamin Ryan Liesch, 27, of  Sandpoint, Idaho, formerly of Valparaiso, Ind., passed away Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2008, at the VNA Hospice Center in Valparaiso.

He was born Dec. 6, 1980, in Valparaiso, the son of Terrence and Marla Liesch, and graduated from Valparaiso High School in 1999, then received his BA degree in communications and geography from Valparaiso University in 2003. He worked as activities counselor at Northwest Academy in Naples, Idaho, and was a member of First Lutheran Church in Sandpoint.

Ben had a passion for writing, photography, trading on eBay and traveling, especially national parks and any outdoor destination. He took a special pleasure in playing his guitar in various bands and promoting concerts. His love of sports and unabashed backing of the Green Bay Packers will not be forgotten. Many will remember his almost daily excitement at finding a new thrift store treasure to bring home and his clever wit and humor.

On Aug. 14, 2004, at Valparaiso University, he married Kirstin Spurgeon who survives along with their 9-month-old son, Raider; Ben's parents, Terry and Marla Liesch of Valparaiso; a sister, Jenna Liesch of Valparaiso; his father- and mother-in-law, Mark and Nancy Spurgeon of Wenatchee, Wash.; a sister-in-law, Hilary (Percy) Martinez of Seattle, Wash; many loving aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins; and his ever-faithful dog Riley.

Following cremation at Angel-crest Crematory, a memorial visitation will be held Friday from 4-8 p.m. at Moeller Funeral Home, 104 Roosevelt Rd., Valparaiso with a memorial service Saturday 10 a.m. at Valparaiso University's Chapel of the Resurrection; Rev. Joseph Cunningham officiating.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Benjamin Liesch Benefit Fund. Ben rejoiced in every day and it is hoped that by his example, others would live life to its fullest.  He seemed to touch the lives of all those he met.

Moeller Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.