Benjamin Hovingh

Benjamin “Ben” John Hovingh passed away at home on Sept. 25, 2024 after a year and a half battle with cancer. He was born Nov. 9, 1980 to his parents Timothy and Carol Hovingh. He was a 1999 graduate of Rockford High School.

He married the love of his life, Kristina Warren, on Oct. 6, 2007. During their nearly 17 years of marriage, they enjoyed life to its fullest. They were fortunate to take a final trip to the Upper Peninsula to enjoy the fall colors of beautiful northern Michigan. Ben loved building/constructing things around the house, having bonfires, kayaking, and just being outdoors. Known as “tractorman,” he enjoyed working with his tractor and riding off-road vehicles at Silver Lake and other trails across the state.

He was a driver for J&H Trucking and previously worked for Herbruck’s Poultry Ranch, Brenner Oil and Petersen Oil Company.

He is survived by his wife Kristina; brothers Nicholas (Kendra), Andrew (Marissa), and David (Theresa) Hovingh; sisters Carlin (Matthew) Hoeppner and Jillian (Brandon) Willoughby; grandmother Dorothy Hovingh; special uncles Michael Hovingh and Denny Hovingh; and special friends Angela and Spencer Brandow and their children Madyson and Miles. He was preceded in death by his parents; and grandparents Charles Hovingh, Carl and Mary Hopkins.

A memorial service and luncheon will be held at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 13 at the First Christian Church (130 E. Washington St., Ionia, Mich.) with Pastor Ethan Tews officiating. A Celebration of Life Party will follow at their home. Memorial donations may be made in his memory to the American Cancer Society or directly to Kristina Hovingh to help during this time of need.