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The Yakima, Washington community is reeling from the untimely passing of Ben Kroner, a beloved Marketing Director at Advanced Exterior Wash, who tragically lost his life on January 2, 2025. As news of his death spreads, family, friends, colleagues, and acquaintances alike have come together to mourn the loss of a man whose life was marked by a deep passion for his work, a steadfast commitment to his loved ones, and an infectious spirit that touched everyone he encountered.

This expanded tribute seeks to honor Benโ€™s remarkable life, celebrate his enduring legacy, and reflect on the countless lives he enriched during his 35 years.


A Bright Light in the Yakima Community

Born and raised in Yakima, Washington, Ben Kroner grew up in a close-knit family that instilled in him a strong sense of responsibility, compassion, and perseverance. From an early age, Ben demonstrated a natural curiosity and creativity that would later define both his personal and professional pursuits.

Friends and family recall a young Ben as a vivacious, outgoing individual who loved to explore, create, and connect with those around him. He was the type of person who made everyone feel welcome, whether they were a lifelong friend or a new acquaintance. โ€œBen had a way of making people feel seen and valued,โ€ shared his younger sister, Sarah. โ€œHe had this incredible gift of bringing people together and making them laugh even on the darkest days.โ€


A Visionary Leader at Advanced Exterior Wash

Benโ€™s professional journey brought him to Advanced Exterior Wash, where he served as the Marketing Director for nearly a decade. In this role, Ben transformed the companyโ€™s marketing strategies, helping the business grow its brand and reach new heights. His innovative campaigns and keen understanding of market trends set the company apart in a competitive industry.

โ€œHe was the heart and soul of our marketing department,โ€ said James Martinez, CEO of Advanced Exterior Wash. โ€œBen didnโ€™t just bring fresh ideas to the tableโ€”he brought energy, optimism, and a contagious enthusiasm that motivated the entire team. His creativity and strategic thinking were unmatched.โ€

Benโ€™s colleagues remember him not only as a marketing genius but also as a mentor and friend. He was known for his patience, generosity, and willingness to help others succeed. โ€œBen never kept his knowledge to himself,โ€ said colleague Megan Ruiz. โ€œHe believed in lifting others up and was always there to offer guidance or encouragement. He truly wanted everyone around him to thrive.โ€


A Life Rooted in Family and Friendship

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Benโ€™s greatest source of pride and joy was his family. He shared an unbreakable bond with his parents, siblings, and extended relatives, often describing them as his โ€œrockโ€ and his โ€œwhy.โ€ His parents, Mark and Linda Kroner, spoke about their sonโ€™s unwavering devotion to the family.

โ€œBen was the glue that held us together,โ€ said Linda. โ€œHe always made time for us, no matter how busy his schedule was. Whether it was a Sunday family dinner, a weekend hiking trip, or just a quick phone call to check in, Ben made sure we knew how much he cared.โ€

As a brother, Ben was a role model and confidant to his siblings, Sarah and Alex. โ€œBen was my hero,โ€ said Alex. โ€œHe taught me how to dream big, work hard, and always stay true to myself. Losing him feels like losing a part of my soul.โ€

Benโ€™s circle of friends was equally tight-knit, filled with individuals who admired his loyalty, humor, and boundless compassion. Whether planning spontaneous road trips, hosting game nights, or simply lending an empathetic ear, Ben was the type of friend everyone hopes to have. His ability to bring people together and create lasting memories was one of his greatest gifts.


A Community in Mourning

The news of Benโ€™s passing has left a void in Yakima, where he was deeply involved in various community initiatives. From volunteering at local shelters to mentoring young professionals, Ben believed in giving back and leaving the world better than he found it.

One of his favorite community projects involved organizing annual clean-up events in Yakimaโ€™s parks, an effort that reflected his love for the outdoors and his commitment to preserving the environment. โ€œBen cared deeply about making Yakima a beautiful place for everyone to enjoy,โ€ said longtime friend and fellow volunteer Jason Lee. โ€œHis passion for nature and community was truly inspiring.โ€

In the days following his death, tributes have poured in from across Yakima and beyond. Former coworkers, childhood friends, and even clients who admired his work have shared stories of how Ben touched their lives. Social media has been flooded with heartfelt messages, photos, and anecdotes that paint a vivid picture of a man who was not only talented and hardworking but also kind, compassionate, and deeply loved.


Reflecting on Benโ€™s Legacy

As those who knew Ben navigate their grief, they are finding solace in the memories they shared with him and the impact he made on their lives. His parents, siblings, and friends are committed to honoring his legacy by continuing the work he cared about and upholding the values he lived by.

โ€œBenโ€™s life was a testament to the power of love, kindness, and perseverance,โ€ said his sister Sarah. โ€œHe taught us to find joy in the little things, to never take a single moment for granted, and to always believe in the good in people. Thatโ€™s the legacy weโ€™ll carry forward.โ€

In memory of Ben, his family has announced plans to establish a scholarship fund for aspiring marketing students in Yakima. The scholarship, named the โ€œKroner Creative Legacy Fund,โ€ aims to support young minds with the same passion and drive that defined Benโ€™s career.


The Circumstances of Benโ€™s Passing

While the family has chosen to keep many details of Benโ€™s passing private, they have shared that it was sudden and unexpected. Local authorities are working to provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding his death, and they have urged the community to respect the familyโ€™s privacy during this difficult time.

For many, the loss of Ben serves as a reminder of the importance of cherishing every moment and checking in on loved ones. โ€œIf thereโ€™s one thing Benโ€™s passing has taught us, itโ€™s to never take anyone for granted,โ€ said friend Emily Davis. โ€œReach out, tell people you love them, and hold them close.โ€


A Final Farewell

Benโ€™s memorial service is scheduled to take place later this week at a local church in Yakima. The service will be open to the public, giving family, friends, and community members an opportunity to celebrate his life and say their goodbyes.

The service will include personal tributes, a slideshow of cherished memories, and a performance by a local bandโ€”one of Benโ€™s favorites. โ€œBen loved music, and he always said it had the power to bring people together,โ€ said his brother Alex. โ€œWe wanted to include that in his farewell because itโ€™s exactly what he would have wanted.โ€


A Life Well Lived, A Legacy Forever Remembered

As the Yakima community continues to grieve, one thing is certain: Ben Kronerโ€™s impact will not be forgotten. His creativity, kindness, and unwavering love for others have left an indelible mark on the lives of those who knew him.

โ€œBen lived life to the fullest,โ€ said Sarah. โ€œHe didnโ€™t just existโ€”he truly lived. And though heโ€™s no longer with us, his spirit will continue to inspire us every day.โ€

In the words of one of Benโ€™s favorite authors, Maya Angelou: โ€œPeople will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.โ€ For all who knew him, Ben made them feel valued, loved, and deeply appreciatedโ€”a legacy that will endure for generations to come.

May he rest in peace, and may his memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to all whose lives he touched.


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