Ben was born in Lodi, California, on March 11, 1923 to John L. and Susanna Neufeld Seibel. He passed in Elk Grove, CA on April 5, 2015 at the age of 92. He was the youngest and last survivor of 13, children.
Ben is survived by his wife, Evelyn Ratzliff Seibel of San Jose, daughters Janys Anderson, Joanne Davis, and Deborah Roden, and son Dwayne Seibel. He also leaves 7 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Ben started his career as an Identification Technician in the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office and retired as a Scientific Investigator and ID Bureau Chief in Santa Cruz County. He served as Master of Soquel Masonic Lodge, and was a member of Scottish Rite of San Jose, and Ben Ali Shrine of San Francisco. He also served as Worthy Patron of the Santa Cruz and Woodbridge Chapters of Eastern Star with his late wife Betty as Matron. Ben also held life membership as past president in the California State Chapter of the International Association for Identification and life membership in the Santa Cruz County Peace Officers Association. He was recognized for his outstanding work in the identification field by the American Legion, as well as by former FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover and Former President Lyndon B. Johnson. Ben also advanced his education in the field of law enforcement and taught courses at Cabrillo and De Anza Colleges.
After graduation from Reedley High School, Ben entered the Merchant Marines to serve his country in time of war. He sailed on tanker ships providing fuel and aviation gas to other ships and ports in the South Pacific. On one voyage in 1943, his unarmed ship was struck by a torpedo near Suva, Fiji. In recent years, his service was recognized as being part of the U.S. Coast Guard and he was given an Honorable Discharge as a First Officer and was awarded battle stars.
Ben and Evelyn enjoyed many journeys throughout the world. Their travels took them to Europe, Russia, Alaska, Africa, Australia, New Zealand, the Middle East and many more adventurous places. They also enjoyed visiting family throughout the United States.
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VISITATION
No visitation will be held.
SERVICES
A graveside service will be held Thursday, April 16, 2015, at 11:00 a.m. at Cherokee Memorial Park, Hwy 99 at Harney Lane, Lodi ,CA 95240