Ben (Benny) Agnew

Ben was born in Eastland, TX to Lester and Zella Agnew. He attended Cisco, TX schools and graduated from Hysham High School in 1962. In 1966 Ben married Jean DeCock, from this union two children were born. In 1999 Ben married the love of his life Sue Beery Nelson. Ben was a self-made man and took pride in excelling at any job, large or small, whether it was digging ditches, working combine crews, or running a business. His father taught him to make biscuits from scratch when Ben was so young he had to stand on a step stool to reach the counter. His flair and enjoyment for cooking continued through life – never using a recipe card.
Ben began his long and successful career at Credit Service Co. in 1965 as a janitor, working his way up through the company and eventually owning the business. He was extremely active in the credit business and believed in the power of networking. In 1979 he became an Equifax Affiliate owner and sold this back to Equifax in 1997. His numerous professional accomplishments include Master Credit Executive (MCE), serving as president of the Northwest Credit Association, president of the Montana Collectors Association, as well as numerous other positions.
Ben was proud of the 13 years he coached Billings Little League and was a strong supporter of the Billings American Legion baseball program and the Billings Mustangs. He was a former Rotarian, volunteered at SCORE, was a long-time member of Hilands Golf Club where he served as its youngest president, and was Founding Director Emeritus of the Charlie Russell Riders.
Ben never met a stranger and could converse with anyone on any topic. He excelled in business and finance, educating stock brokers on trading, and amazing CPAs with his creative tax planning. Ben was admired and a mentor to many, including the senior golfers at Hilands. He always had an encouraging word and time to visit with the elderly and had a way of making people feel better about themselves after talking with him. He could see both sides of the story even after only hearing the one side.
The first to arrive “Ben Christmas Card” marked the beginning of the holiday season for his many friends. Ben had a deep love for his family and could always be seen (and heard) at the sporting events and school activities of his children and grandchildren. His many one liners such as “Bogey Breath” “Keep it out of the dirt” will not be forgotten.
He always remembered his roots at Hysham and was a major contributor at the Hysham 89ers Museum. Ben never missed an opportunity to acknowledge the hard work of others, often quietly slipping cash to a diligent bus boy or maid. Ben always put the feelings and considerations of others before his own.
He is survived by his loving wife Sue; two sons Eric (Jamie) Agnew of Hysham and grandchildren Whitney (Kyle) Nelson of Scobey, Kyle and AJ Stricklin of Hysham; and Grant (Lori) Agnew of Billings and grandchildren Amanda, Megan and Joseph Agnew; and granddaughter Hannah Dohmeier of Cologne, Germany. Brothers and sisters L.C. (Dorothy) Agnew of Abilene TX; Ray Agnew of Cisco, TX; Margie (Paul) Green of Cisco, TX; and Sue Day Osborn of Marion TX. Nephews Garry (Beth) Agnew (Gresham and Rachel) of Billings, MT; Darryl (Margie) Agnew of Nashville, TN; Bert (Teresa) Agnew of Abilene, TX; and Dale Agnew of Abilene TX. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Granville (Bertie) Agnew.
Memorials may be sent to the Hysham 89ers Museum, Hysham, MT 59038 or a charity of choice. Ben will always be remembered for his humor, integrity, laughter and love of life. Happy Trails, Old Friend, until we meet again. Print this post