Benjamin (Ben) David Kooiman, a child of God, passed away on June 17, 2024 at the age of 35.

A memorial gathering for Ben will take place on Saturday, June 22, 2024 at Harvest Ev. Free Church, W7444 Hwy 33, Beaver Dam, from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the memorial service at 2:00 p.m.

Ben was born on January 11, 1989, in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, to David and Evonne (Slager) Kooiman. He graduated from Central Wisconsin Christian High School in 2007 and then attended Fox Valley Technical College to pursue his lifelong dream of being a firefighter and paramedic. For the majority of his career, he served diligently on the Manitowoc and Fond du Lac Fire Departments, and was known for his willingness to teach the new recruits. His dedication and hard work led to his promotion to lieutenant in the Fond du Lac Fire Department.

Ben married his soulmate Heather (Lindert) Kooiman on May 24, 2014, and is survived by his wife and children, Elliot and Edwin Kooiman. He is also survived by his parents; his brother Branden and wife Gretchen Kooiman; sister Bethany and husband Tim Keep; sister Breanna Kooiman; sister Brittni Kooiman; and many nephews, nieces, cousins, uncles, and aunts.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Gladys (Kooiman) Koerner, Wilbert Koerner, Marvin Kooiman, Clarence Slager, and Frieda Slager.

Ben was always ready for an adventure, whether that meant simply getting outside or creating his own crazy schemes. But even if others didn't want to follow said shenanigans, it was Ben. He had the charm to convince them to. He drew his family's hearts towards the playful pieces of life. He loved fishing, camping, hiking, jet skiing, and playing games. He also loved to tinker — whether that was putting something together, or taking it apart to see how it worked.

Ben rarely drew attention to himself, but he was always attentive to any concerns of his family and friends — being willing to show up (tools in hand) to tackle a problem. And when there was a problem, he showed great resourcefulness in finding a solution. He seemed to always be able to fix whatever he put his mind to.

Above all, Ben genuinely cared for all the people in his life. He was extremely thoughtful, a great giver of gifts, and would remember the smallest of details that was shared with him, even months or years later. He had a great capacity for love, especially for his boys and his wife. His love was readily apparent each and every day to his family, friends, and those he served as a firefighter. He will be sorely missed, but his family looks forward to seeing him again in Heaven.

If desired, memorial donations in Ben's name may be made to the Peer Support Group at the Fond du Lac Fire Department. Please send checks made out to the City of Fond du Lac Fire Department and include in the Memo: Fond du Lac Fire and Rescue, Peer Support Group.

Cornerstone Funeral & Cremation Services in Beaver Dam is honored to be serving the family.