Ben was born in Burbank, California, to Jack and Sally Estes on September 12, 1954. He was soon joined by the arrival of his brother Don and then sister Shannon. The family lived on Manning Street in Burbank where they were actively involved with neighbors, many whom are still friends today. Ben attended Providencia Elementary, Luther Burbank Jr. High and graduated from Burbank High School. Ben played on the Burbank Bulldogs football team and was a pitcher for their baseball team. He also played softball for Burbank Parks and Recreation for many years.
As a young adult, Ben studied business at Glendale Community College and held various jobs including working at Harveys in Lake Tahoe. Ben eventually went to work for Lockheed Aircraft Co. as a manufacturing control supervisor for the L-10-11 TriStar. He then moved on to working for the studios as a grip, where he eventually retired.
In 1990, Ben married Julie Ponek at St. Finbar Catholic Church. The two made their home in Santa Clarita. The birth of daughters, Shelby and Ally, brought much joy to the couple. As the girls became young adults, Ben took pride in their accomplishments. The family enjoyed many fun times together, which often included trips to the beach and Yosemite.
Ben was an avid fisherman, devoted Dodger fan, loved to cook and socialize. During one of his family trips to Crystal Cove he discovered a footballfish that had washed up on the shore. This rarely seen deep-sea creature is now in the National History Museum Ichthyology Collection.
On November 2, 2022, Ben unexpectedly passed away. He was a kind and generous son, husband, father, brother, uncle and nephew. Ben was pre-deceased by his father Jack Estes and nephew, Robert Donathan. He is survived by his mother, Sally Estes, wife, Julie Estes, daughters, Shelby and Ally, brother Don Estes (Ann), sister Shannon Donathan, aunt, Susan Burns, uncle, Peter Pierson and numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews, and close friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that everyone who knew Ben pass along the same giving spirit he shared with others. Services will be held at 12 noon at St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic Church located at 22508 Copper Hill Drive in Santa Clarita. A reception will follow at a nearby family home.
Benjamin “Ben” Yates Estes | OBITUARY
