Benjamin Wilbur Wortman, 81, of Bellefontaine, Ohio, passed away Sunday morning, May 22, 2011 at his home. Ben was born in Bellefontaine May 27, 1929, to the late George and Almeda Wiles Wortman.

He was a 1947 graduate of Bellefontaine High School and married Marilyn Fahle August 12, 1950, in Bellefontaine.

In addition to his wife, Ben is survived by his children Tamara (David) Maroon of West Chester, Ohio, Stacie Howsman of Bellefontaine, Rand (Gay) Wortman of Richland, Washington and Alan Wortman of Sidney, Ohio; a son-in-law, Mike �Smoke� Howsman of Bellefontaine; a sister, Fran Bishop of Indian Lake, Ohio; eight grandchildren, Benjamin (Christie) Wortman, Amy (Rob) Thomas, Kim Barr, Wendy (Lucas) Rhoads, Michael (Amanda) Maroon, Dustin (Kylene) Maroon, Kirsten (Doug Clark) Lonyo, and Ashtyn Howsman, and twelve great grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by a brother, three sisters and a daughter, Alana Dee Wortman.

Ben worked in management for the United Telephone Company and Sprint for forty three years before retiring in 1991. He enjoyed camping and spending time with his grandchildren.

A memorial service conducted by Pastor Gene Marine, will be held Wednesday, May 25, 2011 at 1 P.M. at the Eichholtz Funeral Home in Bellefontaine. Friends may call one hour prior to the service.

Memorial contributions may be made to: American Heart Association  5455 North High Street  Columbus, OH 43214-1127  or the American Diabetes Association  644 Linn Street Suite 304  Cincinnati, OH 45203