Benjamin “Ben” Karasiewicz, affectionately known as “Dover,” of Hudsonville, died at his home Tuesday morning, Oct. 22.”Born Jan. 4, 1977, in Grand Rapids, Ben was 47 years old.
When Ben was first diagnosed with cancer, the doctors gave him just six months. But Ben, being the fighter he was, turned that six months into two years of living fully. Ben showed incredible strength and resilience. He refused to let go, choosing to fight with everything he had because he wasn’t ready to leave his family and friends behind.
Ben was a devoted family man who had a zest for life. He was full of energy and always on the go. His favorite pastime was to drive anything with wheels and a motor.
He was passionate about riding his motorcycle, snowmobiling, Jeeping and driving semi-trucks. He lived life to the fullest.
In 2004, Ben met the love of his life, Heidi, at a local biker event, Blues on the Mall. Their connection was immediate, and they were married in 2006. Together, they shared 18 years of marriage.
Ben is survived by his wife, Heidi Karasiewicz, their two children Milo and Jocilyn. He is also survived by his brother, Chris; stepfather, Tom Kolenda; and a host of nieces and nephews: Meghan, Gracelynn, Morgan, Nicky, Bailey, Nicky Joe Jr., Delanie, Dakota, Austin, Kelcie, Kai, Nova, Joshua and Aisley.
He was preceded in death by his parents Debra Kolenda and Michael Karasiewicz.
Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 25, at Kubiak-Cook Funeral Home, 4330 18th St., Dorr. Services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, at the funeral home, with visitation from 1 to 1:45 p.m. prior to the service.
