DUE TO THE WEATHER: Ben's Memorial Mass will be livestreamed for those who are unable to attend. CLICK HERE to watch the livestream on "White Earth Catholic, MN" Facebook page. The livestream will also be available here shortly following the service.

Leon "Ben" Stalberger, age 72, of Waubun, MN, died Wednesday, December 22, 2021, at his home under the loving care of his family and Hospice of Red River Valley.

Leon Mathias, known to many as Ben, Butch, Fingers or Jammin', was born February 24, 1949, in Albany, MN, to Anthony and Marie (Sperl) Stalberger. He grew up in the Albany area where he attended school. Following his high school graduation, Ben furthered his education at the St. Cloud Tech School in the field of Carpentry. Ben was united in marriage to Barbara Mattsen in Waubun on November 4, 1972. The couple made their home near Waubun where they raised their family of six children. Ben worked as a carpenter for 3-4 years and farmed together with Barb's parents. He spent over 30 years as an over the road truck driver, or professional tourist as he would say, for Winter Truck Line. Upon retirement, Ben continued to work seasonally for Haugo Farms, West Central Ag, and Jason Scherping. He never stopped doing odd jobs and would take on any project where someone needed his talents. The metal flowers at the alter are one of the many crafts he made and they were painted by his grandkids.

Ben loved to spend time with his grandkids and teaching them how to play cards including, poker, cribbage and whist. He loved fishing with his kids and grandkids whenever his boat was working-he always said he out fished everyone. He enjoyed attending their activities and sporting events, making sure they knew he was there. Ben loved both hunting and fishing, with his most memorable catches coming from trips to Alaska and Mexico. He loved woodworking in his garage and always had projects on his list from his children. Ben enjoyed coffee with the crew at Pappy's and E-Z One Stop, and shooting the breeze with anyone that had time to listen. Summer months, rest assured, you would find him spending time tending to his large garden with its abundant amount of fresh vegetables he loved to share.

Ben was a member of WAMO, the Knights of Columbus and a dedicated fireman with the Waubun Fire Department for nearly 20 years, where he proudly served as fireman #16. Ben had a caring heart and a great sense of humor. He will be missed by all who were lucky enough to know and love him.

Ben is survived by his wife of 49 years, Barbara; their children: Lisa Stalberger, Sara DeGroat, Brian (Stacey) Stalberger, Beth (Tony) Crockett, Laura (James) Dahl and Kami (Jerome) Lhotka; nine grandchildren which were his pride and joy: Shadaisa, Brynn, Trevin, Annabelle, Tayt, Calissa, Zoey, Rory and Jase; one brother, Charlie (Mary) Stalberger; two sisters, Judy Steeber, and Mary Smith; brother-in-law, Tino Bilyk; sisters-in-law: Mary (Sully) Sullivan, Theresa (Bud) Teiken, Rose Necas and Diane Mattsen; and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Anthony and Marie; in-laws, Martin and Agnes Mattsen; brother, Fred Stalberger; nephew, Joey Dahlen; niece, Michelle Growth; sister-in-law, Margie Bilyk; four brothers-in-law: Robert Smith, David Mattsen, James Necas and Mike Steeber. Blessed be the memory of Leon "Ben" Stalberger.

A Time of Gathering will be held on Monday, December 27, 2021 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. with a Prayer Service beginning at 6:30 at Most Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in Ogema, Mn. A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 28, 2021 at the church, with a luncheon to follow at the Ogema Community Center.

Following all Covid-19 safety protocols, and CDC guidelines, social distancing will be practiced. Masks are strongly encouraged.

Please feel free to sign the guestbook, send condolences and view other opportunities which may be available.