Benjamin Matthew Pietila
91, Benjamin Pietila, a WWII USS Kwajalein seaman and longtime Coon Rapids resident died April 3, 2015 in Roseville. Born December 27, 1923 to Nels and Hilja Pietila in Green Valley Township, he graduated from Menahga High School 1943. Discharged from the Navy, he married Edna Arola in September 1946. Ben's career in refrigeration at Thermo King Corporation led to his "Mr. Fix It" reputation in retirement. Preceded in death by his wife Edna and six siblings, Lydia, Senia, Edwin, Reuben, Hans, and Verna. Survived by children, Gary (Penny), Linda Pipkin, and Gregory; grandchildren, James (Heidi) Pipkin, Laurie (Leo) Perez and Hannah Pietila; and great-grandchildren, Gordy, Greta, Ben, Gabby, Aquileo, and Maxwell. Burial at Fort Snelling National Cemetery and memorial service at Faith Lutheran Church, Coon Rapids.