Benjamin Jacob Hungness was born August 16, 1981, in Harvey, Illinois, to Erling and Kathryn Hungness. Preceded in death by his beloved Sara Guffey and best friend, Mike McNery.

Benjamin is survived by his children, Indica, Azmadeaus and Tilly; many grandchildren; his parents, his siblings, David Hungness (JoAnn), Christina Hoeffel, Stephen Hungness (Jane), Scott Wasinski (Kristen), Michael Hungness (Amber) and Trinity Willette (Bill); and many beloved aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and friends whose lives he forever changed.

Benjamin made it his life’s work to explore and his adventures brought him to Humboldt County in 2002 where he did what came naturally to him — he built community. Benjamin had an extraordinary gift for bringing people together. He made friends wherever he went, and often those friendships became family.

To his three children, he was simply “Papa.” Being their father was one of the greatest joys and proudest roles of his life.

Benjamin was known by many names. To his best friend, Faith Robb, he was affectionately “Beba,” a nickname that reflected years of unwavering loyalty, laughter, trust and love. To countless others, he was “Benjamin the Badass” — a name that perfectly captured the fearless, generous and fiercely loyal way he lived.

Benjamin showed up. He didn’t just tell people he cared. He proved it through his actions. His kindness wasn’t performative — it was simply who he was.

He loved to laugh, tell stories, make people smile and encourage those around him to experience more of life. He inspired others to learn, grow and become the best versions of themselves. His optimism, creativity, adventurous spirit and ability to connect people made him unforgettable. He loved deeply, felt intensely and carried burdens that were often unseen.

Benjamin’s life is measured by the love he poured into his family, the children he adored, the friendships he nurtured, the communities he built, the laughter he shared and the countless lives made better because he was part of them.

Though our hearts are broken by his passing, we find comfort in believing Benjamin is finally at peace.

If he taught us anything, it was that love is something you do. It is answering the phone. It is getting in the car. It is helping someone when there is nothing to gain. It is bringing people together and standing beside those who need you most.

Benjamin did that for so many of us.

Now it is our turn to carry that legacy forward.

He was Papa. 
He was Beba. He was Benjamin the Badass. He will be deeply missed, forever celebrated, fiercely loved, and never forgotten.

A celebration of life will be held at Siren’s Song Tavern beginning at 12 p.m. on August 16. Family, friends, and all whose lives Benjamin touched are warmly invited to come together to laugh, cry, share stories and celebrate this remarkable man.