1924 ~ BENJAMIN “BEN” KUSLER ~ 2017

Benjamin “Ben” Kusler, beloved husband of Rachel Kusler of Medicine Hat, passed away on Sunday, January 22nd, 2017 at the age of 92 years. Ben also leaves to cherish his memory two daughters, Sandra (Brent) Phaff of Walsh and Tannis (Tim) Piotrowski of Manyberries; three grandchildren, Kyle and Chelsey Phaff, and Barrett Piotrowski; two sisters, Ruth Krauz and Frances Morley; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Ben was predeceased by his parents, Henry and Caralina Kusler; and three brothers, Eugene, Art and George Kusler. Ben was born in Walsh on March 26th, 1924. He farmed and ranched in the Graburn area on the same farm from childhood until retirement and took pride in raising his commercial cattle and purebred Hereford cattle. Ben taught his daughters how to be successful in agriculture, to use the machinery, and to handle the livestock. Ben was a hardworking, strong man who had a soft heart and loved caring for animals and being around people. He enjoyed social gatherings to the fullest and volunteered in the community. He also loved all sports and made time for curling, bowling, playing slo-pitch, and fishing. During retirement, Ben enjoyed woodworking and spending time with his family and friends.

Close The Gate by Nancy Kraayenhof

Your worries are over, lie down and rest your head.

Years were not easy, many downright hard.

Put away your tools and sleep in peace.

The fences have all been mended.

Hang up your shovel inside the barn; your work here on earth is done.

The sun is setting, the cattle are all bedded, and here now is the end of your day.

Wash off your work boots in the puddle left by blessed rain one final time.

Take off your gloves and put them down, your labor is done, your home is now heaven.

Your legacy lives on, your love of the land, and we will close the gate.

A Private Family Graveside Service will be held at Hillside Cemetery on Friday, January 27th, 2017 with Pastor Sid Nelson officiating. Memorial gifts in Ben’s memory may be made to STARS, Shock Trauma Air Rescue Society, 1441 Aviation Park NE, P.O. Box 570, Calgary, Alberta, T2E 8M7. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Ben Kusler. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to

SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL CHAPEL CREMATORIUM & RECEPTION CENTRE, “The Chapel in the Park” #1 Dunmore Road SE, Medicine Hat, AB T1A 1Z5 (403)528-2599 www.saamis.com inquiry@saamis.com Locally owned and directed CGR Holdings Ltd.