OLD ORCHARD BEACH — Benjamin Franklin Jehn, 80, of Old Orchard Beach, passed away on Saturday, Aug. 17, 2013, at his home.

He was born on July 12, 1933 in Grayling, Mich., the son of Leona (Markby) and Harold Jehn. He proudly served in the United States Air Force for 20 years, retiring in 1972 at the rank of Master Sergeant. He served in the SAC (Strategic Air Command) for 18 of his 20 years of service. Ben’s travels in the military convinced him Maine was one of the most beautiful places on Earth and he decided to make it his home and raise his family. After retiring, he owned Ben’s Market on Pool Street in Biddeford and then settled in Old Orchard Beach.

Ben was kindhearted and loved engaging in talk of sports, history and human achievement. He was an avid reader and a man of ritual. His visits to Dyer Library in Saco, walks in Laurel Hill Cemetery, nightly Red Sox games and weekly visits to family were standard in his life.

Ben is survived by his former wife, Nettie Jehn of Limerick; brother, Elton Jehn of Columbus, Ohio; daughters, Marsha Jehn of Escondido, Calif., Mariam Jehn of Old Orchard Beach and Elizabeth Carroll of Limerick; nine grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren including Jaden and Gavin of Bridgton.

Visitation was held on Monday, Aug. 26 at Old Orchard Beach Funeral Home at 36 Portland Avenue, Old Orchard Beach. A memorial service was held on Tuesday, Aug. 27 at the Chapel in Laurel Hill Cemetery, 293 Beach Street, Saco. Condolences can be sent to oobfuneral@gmail.com

Memorial contributions may be made in Ben’s name to: Dyer Library/Museum, 317 Main St., Saco, ME 04072.