Benjamin "Ben" Thomas Shimek

Benjamin Thomas Shimek, age 67, of Maple City, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at Munson Medical Center after a short battle with cancer. Born on May 4, 1958, to Joseph V. and Phyllis N. (Bartz) Shimek in Traverse City, Ben graduated from Glen Lake High School. Ben lived a life marked by his deep faith in Jesus Christ and his unwavering commitment to those close to him. He was often heard sharing the message of Jesus and praying for those in need of healing. From an early age, Ben worked on his family farm, dedicating himself to cherry and apple farming until his retirement several years ago. He loved recounting stories of fighting frost all night during the crucial early stages of the cherry growing season. A talented handyman, Ben could weld and fix anything on the farm, and his love for agriculture extended to his beloved container garden at home. Ben was known for his contagious enthusiasm for life, often responding to inquiries about his well-being with a cheerful, “living the dream.” His passion for karaoke lit up many gatherings, earning him recognition among the vibrant karaoke community of Northwest Michigan. He was also a retired Elvis impersonator and enjoyed the thrill of paragliding. An avid deer hunter, Ben cherished the time spent in the woods with close friends Jeremy and Gene. He devoted a good part of the year preparing for the 15-day firearm deer season, eagerly anticipating the camaraderie of “big buck night” in January at Dick’s Poor House in Lake Leelanau. Ben had many fond memories of ice fishing and spearing on Little Glen and Lake Leelanau, often reminiscing about the cozy woodstove in his shanty and the special hidden compartment under his seat. He loved talking about how “winter’s back had been broken” as spring approached, quickly transitioning the conversation to mushroom hunting and the excitement of apple blossoms. He treasured long phone calls with loved ones, sharing stories and laughter that brought joy to all who knew him. Ben deeply missed his sister Cynthia, who preceded him in death, and often reflected on the companionship of his favorite dog, Polar Bear. Ben is survived by his brothers, David Shimek of Traverse City and Robert and Kris Shimek of Empire. A burial will take place on Thursday, May 29, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Cleveland Township Cemetery. A celebration of Ben's life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 31, 2025 at Westside Community Church in Traverse City. Memorial contributions in Ben’s name may be directed to Westside Community Church. "Keep on living the dream." - Ben Ben's spirit will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know him. Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories of Ben at his tribute page at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.

Benjamin "Ben" Thomas Shimek

May 4, 1958 - May 24, 2025