Benjamin V. Smithstone, 53

Benjamin V. Smithstone, 53, of Bigfork, died unexpectedly on Tuesday, March 15, 2022, in Libby.

Ben was born in Brunswick, Maine, on Sept. 26, 1969, to Elizabeth and Malcom, the youngest of five siblings. Ben attended grade school at St. John’s Catholic School; he graduated from Salem High School and went on to receive his Bachelor of Science degree from Southern New Hampshire University.

Ben and his late wife Candie moved to Oregon after graduating college. Ben and Candie married in 2002. While visiting Glacier National Park on a family vacation, they fell in love with Montana and knew they wanted to make it their home; they eventually settled just outside of Bigfork.

Ben was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed spending his days cross country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking and fishing with his dog Jackson. Those who knew Ben knew of his unique outlook on life, his desire to help each person he met and his dedication and love for his family and friends.

Ben is survived by his mother, Liz, his brothers, Richard, Paul and Stephen, sister Marlena, Candie’s parents Gerald and Debbie Ward, her sister Tracie, as well as their many extended family members.

Memorial services are being planned for a later date in Maine.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.