Deputy Ben Neel has died after suffering from two brain tumors. He reportedly passed away Wednesday, January 8, 2020 after undergoing medical treatment for weeks.
Neel served with the Pine County Sheriff’s Office since August of 2003. It was such a sad death. Ben’s wife announced the death of her husband on a GoFundMe page initially created for Neel’s medical expenses.
“From Ben’s wife Jennifer:
At 7:40 tonight my husband gained his wings.. he is with our lord. He was at peace… he is loved and we will be together again soon.. I love you till my last breath, my soul mate, my heart, my guardian angel.”
Part of the details on GoFundMe page reads
On Oct 25th, Ben was in South Dakota, hunting. That morning as Ben walked into breakfast he stated he didn’t feel good and collapsed with what presented itself as a seizure. Ben went by ground ambulance to the local hospital. Doctors there found a mass on his brain and he immediately was transferred to another hospital for further testing. He remained stable during this time. After multiple tests and doctor’s appointments, it was determined that he has two tumors that will require extensive operations. Ben underwent his first surgery on December 11, 2019 to remove one tumor behind his right eye. This surgery lasted about 7 ½ hours. Due to the difficult location of the other tumor, Ben will have to undergo another surgery at a later time, once he recovers completely from the first surgery. It is unknown how long he will remain off duty. While doctoring, the family has struggled with multiple trips to the specialists and various medical appointment leading up to the surgery. Lost time from work and medical expenses have taken their toll. He is restricted from most all day to day functions until he is medically cleared.
Our prayers are with the Neel’s families and friends.