Benjamin Franklin Shaner

Benjamin Franklin Shaner, 76, of rural El Dorado Springs, Missouri, passed away Thursday, July 9, 2020. He was born May 2, 1944, in Hartford, Kan., to Willie and Iva (McCormick) Shaner.

Ben went to school for a few months in El Dorado Springs, but transferred his credits back to Hartford in order to graduate there. He served in the National Guard during the mid 60s. He worked for several places around El Dorado, including Marvin’s Skelly, before joining the phone company in 1973. He worked there for over 30 years, retiring in 2004.

Horses were Ben’s love and pastime. He loved riding and won many awards for this. He was a member of the National Cutting Horse Association and the American Quarter Horse Association.

Ben was also a proud member of the Eagles. He was a good man who knew who he was and what he was and wouldn’t change that for anyone or anything. He had a great love for his daughter and son-in-law and enjoyed his son-in-law’s love of racing.

Preceding Ben in death were his parents, Willie and Iva Shaner; and his beloved horse, Chico, who was 34 years old.

Survivors include his daughter, Kristi Shaner and Robert Hall, of Tucson, Ariz.; brother, Merlin Shaner and Jo, of El Dorado Springs; sister, Iva Drake and Donnie, of El Dorado Springs; numerous nieces and nephews; and many friends.

A memorial service for Ben Shaner was held Sunday, July 19, at 2 p.m., at the Eagles with the Rev. Brent Bland officiating. Disposition was by inurnment under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be left at www.blandhackleman.com.