Benjamin John Villnow

Benjamin Villnow, 43, of Willmar, passed away Sunday, February 22, 2026, at St. Cloud Hospital surrounded by his family, following a courageous five-year battle with cancer.

A visitation for Ben will be held from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 5, at Harvey Anderson Funeral Home in Willmar. In lieu of flowers, a “Ben Villnow Memorial Fund” has been established at Kensington Bank in Willmar for the future educational expenses of Ben’s children.

Benjamin John Villnow was born July 25, 1982, in Crosby, to Roger and Louanne (Dengerud) Villnow. In 1986, he moved to Willmar, where he grew up, attended school, and eventually began his family. From a young age, Ben was defined by a fierce competitive drive and a natural love for sports. Whether on the football field, the hockey rink, or the track, he lived for the game and the challenge. A standout athlete, he graduated from Willmar High School in 2001, carrying that same relentless energy into every chapter of his life.

Following high school, Ben spent several years in construction before beginning his career with BNSF Railway in 2005. Ben was known for his “never give up” attitude, giving his job everything he had until 2021, when his health forced him to step away from the railroad. This same determination led him to purchase his first rental property in 2017, Ben channeled his drive into real estate, successfully building and growing Mackel Properties.

On June 11, 2005, Ben married Becky Tensen-Carlson at Living Hope Church in Willmar. Together they raised three children: Madalynn, Elliana, and Jackson. While Ben took pride in his work, being a husband and Dad was his absolute biggest accomplishment. This was the part of life he loved most.

Ben was a member of Refuge Church in Willmar, he enjoyed being active in many Bible studies. His passion for sports and his competitive drive led him to coach pole vaulting for the Willmar Cardinals and also many of Jack's hockey and football teams over the years. 

When he wasn’t coaching or playing in the adult hockey league, Ben could be found in the garage tinkering with anything mechanical or spending time as an avid gun collector. Most of all, he loved being with his kids, especially hunting or teaching them anything outdoors. Ben instilled hard work, perseverance, and a "faster the better" attitude in his children; they all carry that legacy for him. Above all, the message he instilled in them was, “Open your Bible and keep it open; you will always find your truth there.”

He is survived by his wife, Becky; their three children, Madalynn, Ellie, and Jackson; his mother, Louanne Villnow; his siblings, Nate (Janna) Villnow and Sharla (Michael) Vogen; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Roger, and his grandparents.

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