ATHENS – Benjamin Homer MacMichael, 52, died of cancer on Jan. 3, 2024, surrounded by love from family and friends. He was born on March 28, 1971 in Waterville. He was the fourth of five children of James Edward MacMichael and Ellen Hinton MacMichael.

Ben graduated from Skowhegan Area High School in 1990 and from Husson College in 1995. He was a great student and athlete. During his senior year at Skowhegan Area High School, he was chosen student of the month. While in high school, he started on the varsity soccer team for four years and was selected to the all-Eastern Maine Soccer team for all classes his senior year. He started on the varsity basketball team for three years. He was a member of the four by one-hundred-meter dash relay track team during his freshman and sophomore years. That team was undefeated during those two years, won the State Championship twice, and set a school record.

After he graduated from college, Ben spent two years as a bartender in the winter and a white-water rafting guide in the summer. He was subsequently employed by UPS for 20 years, where his customers became friends.

In 2005 Ben and Sarah moved to Athens where they built their forever home on the Bussell compound. They were married on August 9, 2008 in a beautiful ceremony with so many family and friends there to celebrate. Ben was always the life of the party. He enjoyed playing host to friends and family. Ben’s outstanding characteristic was that he was a good person. He was thoughtful, kind, and considerate to everyone. He was a wonderful husband, father, son, brother, and friend. He had a fantastic sense of humor and a ready smile. He enjoyed camping, fishing and any competitive game he could win at, which was most anything. Ben’s comedic side was clearly noted during these times.

Ben is survived by his wife and best friend, Sarah MacMichael; his son, Elijah MacMichael of Athens, a son, Austin Smith and granddaughter Anemone of Tennessee, and a step-son, Kolby Coro of Athens. Ben is also survived by his father, James MacMichael of Skowhegan; a brother, Christopher MacMichael of Norridgewock, and three sisters, Secha Rich of Skowhegan, Dorothy Reed of Skowhegan, and Frances MacMichael of Skowhegan. He was predeceased by his mother, Ellen Hinton MacMichael.

We love and miss Ben very much. His life was a life well-lived. His corner of the world was a better place because of his presence. May he rest in peace.

A Celebration of Ben’s Life will be held on May 11 at 1 p.m. at the Poulin Farm Red Barn Venue in Cornville.

Ben was very touched and greatly appreciated the love and support we received during his short battle with cancer. Thank you all for your kindness and generosity.

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