Benjamin Raver

Benjamin James Raver was born Oct. 22, 1954, in Hot Springs, S.D., to Lloyd and Gladys (Brown) Raver.  He was raised on the family ranch that his grandparents, Benjamin and Daisy Di Raver, homesteaded on Ruby Creek west of Custer, S.D.
Ben attended school in Custer where he was an avid wrestler.  He graduated in 1972 and went on to college at Black Hills State University in Spearfish, S.D. There he received a scholarship in drama to attend an acting school in Mankato, Minn.
After college he went to work for Burlington Northern Railroad.  He rode the rails from Edgemont, S.D., to Gillette, Wyo., as well at the “Highline” from Edgemont to Deadwood, S.D., for many years. After an accident working for the railroad he was forced to retire. At that time, he returned to the family ranch.
He frequently volunteered and donated to The Storehouse and served those in Custer who were in need. Ben truly loved the Lord.
Ben was very artistic and enjoyed anything outdoors including hunting, fishing and walking in the woods, enjoying his Lord’s creation, as well as cutting firewood. He was a generous man and enjoyed helping others. Many loved ones were blessed with a beautiful walking stick or some other keepsake handcrafted by Ben.
Ben passed away March 11, 2023, in Custer. He was 68.
He was preceded in death by his son, Joshua; his parents; and sisters, Jeanette and Mary.
Ben is survived by his son, Michael Raver and Michael’s children, Liam, Tristan and Aeris; daughters, Amanda Raver and Amanda’s children, Romee and Aden; Danielle Butts and Danielle’s children, Jonas, Ronan and Quinn; son, Jake Harris-Raver; brother, Joe Raver; and sister, Kathy (Chuck) Wright.
Christian Funeral Vigil was March 16 at St. John the Baptist Catholic  Church in Custer.
Christian Funeral Mass was March 17 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church.  
Arrangements have been placed in the care of Chamberlain McColley’s Funeral Home in Custer.