Benedict John Mrugala

I love you Ben and family! My prayors are with you! I wish I could be there, but in the DC area now. Mike

Dearly Beloved Brother and Friend, Many wonderful memories of laughter, joy, caring, fun, and being always present in the moment. I remember when Ben was 'lost' in the forest/woods in the back of our family home. It was getting dark and I don't remember who first heard him yelling for help because he could not find his way out, but we first used our car/truck to shine on the woods so he could see the light to find his way out. He couldn't see the one light as it was so dark and Mom then called a number of neighbors who thankfully came over (even though it was soooo late) to shine their headlights on the same woods and then he saw the light to find his way out - a little scratched and cold - but safe! I was sooooo happy! Scared about the whole event but sooo happy he was home! Ben is also responsible for my sister Donna and I being alive today because of him pulling/pushing us closer to the shore at Lake Laura after we had gone too far out from the shore. We were floating on the water and didn't realize we had floated sooo far away from shore. When we attempted to stand up, we were far enough away from shore that we could not touch the bottom of the lake and panic set in. Ben saw we were in trouble and came and grabbed us from under the water pushing us toward the shore to save our lives. I know if he had not done that, I don't believe we would have survived because I had started taking in water. He was a great brother and is missed greatly already! Many happy moments and laughter - and sadness in losing him!

So very sorry to hear that Ben passed away. He was just 3 years younger than myself and I remember him well. I know how hard it is to lose a loved one because my mom, Frances, passed away on November 14th this year. We will miss mom and I'm sure you will miss Ben. Please accept my condolences. Wally and Brenda Leja