On November 3, 2011 Ben W. Knudson, Jr. was once again reunited with his loving wife, Evelyn. Ben passed away peacefully at his Arlington residence with his family by his side.

Ben was born June 29th, 1927 to parents Ben and Olga Knudson in Montevideo, Minnesota. They moved to Arlington when Ben was in 3rd grade where he attended Arlington School thru his graduation in 1945. Ben served in the merchant marines; after 2 years he returned home and married Evelyn Hagen.

Ben worked locally in car repair before purchasing the Signal Station on 2nd and Olympic in 1956. The station went from Signal oil to Enco and finally to Exxon. In 1959, he added “Ben’s Chrysler Plymouth, Dodge Truck” dealership to the business.

Ben was a 28-year member of the Arlington Fire Department; he served as both Assistant Chief and Chief for many years. He also served on the Civil Service Board for the City of Arlington.

Ben and Evelyn had four children and enjoyed traveling as a family. Ben was an avid hunter, fisherman and sports fanatic. He enjoyed following his children and grandchildren in all of their sporting events and other activities. Other favorite pastimes included weekends at their beach cabin on Camano Island where he enjoyed clam digging, smelt raking, crabbing and fishing. Ben also enjoyed family holidays and a good sunset.

Ben is survived by his three sons: Michael, Marvin and Dennis, and his daughter; Jan. He also leaves behind his grandchildren; Ryan (Kelli), Colby (Tisha), Christopher (Joanna), Andrea (Craig), and Kevin (Krystal). Great-grandchildren: Syvannah, Alexandra, Cadynce, Camden and Savanna, and great-great-granddaughter, Erynn.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 63 years; Evelyn, his parents, two sisters; Helen Bergan and Lucille Wangsmo, daughter in law, Rhonda Knudson and grandson Adam.

Per Ben’s requests, no services will be held.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Arlington Fire Department.