Ben Arthur Loukes, beloved husband, brother, father, uncle, and grandfather, was called to his heavenly home on Friday, May 31, 2019. Ben embodied the true meaning of family man and friend, always warmly engaging all who crossed his path.
Ben was born 12/7/1937 in Duluth, MN. After graduating from Duluth Central, Ben went on to study finance and accounting at UMD, U of M, and UW Madison. He applied his education to a long and successful career culminating in 40+ years as Comptroller at Franklin Foods in Duluth. Ben was dedicated to public service and charity. As a Sergeant with the Army National Guard in the 598th Transportation unit, he was a master marksman. He served on the board of the Boys and Girls Club, he served as president of Teamsters Local 346 retirement club and was on the board of directors of the Teamsters Health Fund. He became a 33rd degree Mason-Euclid Lodge 198 A.F. & A.M. member and a member of the American Legion. An avid runner in his younger years and member of the North Shore Striders, Ben loved volunteering at many road races and was a Pug's Club member. He was the past President of the Stone Lake Association and a past Deacon at Westminster. Known by those closest to him as a Finnish carpenter, he built the family cabin in his own way, on the shores of Stone Lake, that is enjoyed by family and friends to this day. He also enjoyed canoeing and camping in the Boundary Waters area numerous times. Ben enjoyed his trips with his "Hinkley Group", spending time with American Legion friends, Teamster meeting friends and numerous friends in Ashland, WI. Cousin Clayton and Yvonne Breimon, special friend Larry Watts, and niece "What's Her Name?"(Ann) held a special place in his heart.
Preceded in death by Parents; Benjamin S. Loukes and Toyne(Nurmi) Loukes-Love (Dick Love)and brother Rodger Loukes. Ben is survived by his loving wife Nancy of 58 years, daughter Lori (Chris) Ashland, WI, son Jason (Susan) Ponce Inlet, FL and brothers Jim (Joanne) Loukes, Kerry (Joyce) Louks. Brother in law; Jack (Joanne) Egerdahl and Jeff (Wendy) Egerdahl. Grandchildren; Emily, Ethan, Samantha and Allison. The family of Ben would like to express sincere gratitude and appreciation to the first responders, St. Lukes I.C.U nurses and staff, Dr. Broadmoore, Dr. Trok, and Dr. Bachelder for their genuinely compassionate and tender care for Ben and the family.
As per Ben's wishes, there was a private family service and burial. Memorial gifts can be donated to the Boys and Girls Club of Duluth at bgcnorth.org