Benjamin Wayne Girten1954 — 2026

Celebrating the Life & Legacy

Benjamin Wayne Girten

September 9, 1954  —  March 12, 2026

Benjamin Wayne Girten, 71, passed away peacefully at home in Phoenix, Arizona, on March 12, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on September 9, 1954, in Danville, Kentucky, Benjamin’s life journey carried him from Kentucky to Donora and Washington, Pennsylvania, then to California where he built and raised his family, and finally to Phoenix, Arizona, where he enjoyed his retirement and final years.

Service & Career

Semper Fidelis

Benjamin proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps, carrying the values of strength, dedication, and loyalty throughout his life. After his military service, he dedicated more than 40 years of his career as a Senior Computer Operations Manager working for major corporations such as City National Bank, UCLA Medical Center, and Fox Broadcasting & Entertainment before retiring. He worked hard throughout his life, always providing for and supporting the people he loved.

The Man He Was

Outside of work, Benjamin truly embraced life. He loved riding motorcycles, cars, camping, skiing, traveling, shooting and collecting guns, and above all, spending time with family and friends. Known for his fun-loving spirit and charismatic personality, Benjamin had a gift for making people laugh and feel welcome. He treated everyone equally regardless of background or status, and his kindness, warmth, and joyful energy touched countless lives. He loved to celebrate life, enjoy good times, and create lasting memories with the people around him.

Those He Loved

Preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin Girten Sr. and Josephine Girten

Devoted Wife
Eleanor Ronea Girten — his partner of 54 years
Children
His daughter, Sonya Girten; his son, Aaron Coleman
Siblings
His sisters, Joyce Butler and Sandy Jones; his brother and best friend, David Girten
Grandchildren
Asia Girten, Cassius Girten-Bernard, Diamanté Coleman, Skyler Coleman, and Skye Coleman
Great-Grandchildren
Three beautiful great-grandchildren
Step-Family
His beloved step-mom, Faith “Cookie” Girten, and his step-siblings, Gertrude Thomas and Doremus Girten

Benjamin will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, Marine, and friend — a man whose laughter could light up a room and whose heart was always open to others. Though he will be deeply missed, his spirit will continue to live on through the many lives he touched and the beautiful memories shared with him. Just Another Day in Paradise