Forrest “Ben” Hurd passed June 12, 2025. Ben passed away, in his home, in the middle of his Christmas Tree Farm with friends by his side. Ben had a long life and had recently celebrated his 93rd birthday.

Ben was born April 26, 1932 in Massachusetts and he carried a bit of that New England accent, along with that Yankee Spirit, until his death. Following high school Ben enlisted in the Air Force and ended up being stationed in California where he met his wife, Wanda. They were married almost 50 years until her death. They shared many adventures and raised two sons.

Ben was a retired CHP officer, which he was very proud of. He continued to be active in various careers and activities during retirement including teaching classes, building and repairing firearms, and managing the Christmas Tree Farm. Ben’s favorite time of the year was Christmas. In the season you could find him on his deck from morning until dusk greeting his customers.

Ben requested that we have a celebration to remember him and a life well lived. We well gather on September 13, 2025, 1 p.m. at the Christmas Tree Farm to remember, smile, share stories, and have an ice cream social, ice cream being Ben’s favorite food. As Ben would say, ”Come on over! If you don’t have friends when you get here, you will have some by the time you leave!”

Please let us know if you will be attending by sending a note with how many will be in your group to rsvpbensfarm@gmail.com.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Ben Hurd’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here.