Ben Avila passed away peacefully on May 8th 2025 from natural causes at the age of 82. He was the youngest of thirteen children – born to Moleska and Catalina Avila onDecember 6th, 1942. Ben was the loving father of Angelique and the late Stefan. He was
preceded in death by his second wife Arlene.
Ben was a proud U.S Army Veteran having served his Honorably in the Vietnam War
from August 1967 to February 1969 and then stateside in the army reserves until August 1972. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and Vietnam Campaign Medal and attaining the rank of Specialist 4.
Ben loved the food, drink, and lively conversations at the Village Tavern and Grill for
many years and especially on Sundays with his friends watching his beloved Chicago Bears
(Green Bay Sucks!) Ben’s jokes were legendary! (cough) The twinkle in his eyes was always
there when suggesting to the younger crowd that if they were going to have a baby be sure to name them after him. Boy or Girl. He would aways say with a smile, “I love life and I love
people!” And he did – which of course will be tested at the Pearly Gates when Murph sneaks up on him and gives him the “Wet willy”. That will bring a smile to both.
Scott, Matthew, and Julie Kolp wish to thank the Carol Stream Fire Department EMS
team for their rapid response and professionalism. For his final days, we thank all those who
cared for him at Central DuPage Hospital and the Lighthouse Hospice Care team working with the Meadowbrook of Bolingbrook nursing home. With heartfelt gratitude we wish to thank all the dedicated doctors, nurses, technicians, and support staff at Hines VA Hospital in Chicago and Hoffman Estates VA Clinic for Ben’s outstanding care through the years.
Interment will be held at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery – 20953 West Hoff Rd, Elwood, IL, 60421, Tuesday, May 27th , 2025, at 10:30am sharp.
Please arrive at least 30 minutes early due to the strict schedule of the Military Honors
Ceremony. Please check in at the visitor center for directions to the Comital Shelter.
