Benjamin "Ben" John Kettner

Benjamin “Ben” John Kettner, age 47, of Nicollet, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 10, 2026 following a courageous 8-and-a-half-year battle with cancer. Ben was surrounded by family until his final breath.

A celebration of Ben’s life will be held from 3-7pm on Sunday, August 16th at the Nicollet Conservation Club. Guests are asked to celebrate in casual attire, camouflage, or athletic gear.

Ben, the oldest son of Leon and Jeanne (Stevensen) Kettner, was born on January 2, 1979, in Mankato. He attended elementary school at Trinity Lutheran in Nicollet and was a 1997 graduate of Nicollet Public School, where he was a standout athlete and highly involved in both school and social activities. After high school, Ben attended Minnesota State University, Mankato, followed by making a lifelong career in the construction industry. Ben was proud co-owner of Swan Lake Woodworks for 8 years before later working at Holtmeier Construction of Mankato for 14 years, where he was happily employed until his passing. In 2004, Ben met his wife Naomi and, in 2005, they welcomed their first child, Samantha. They were united in marriage on June 19, 2010. In 2011, Ben and Naomi welcomed their second child, Jaxon, followed by their third child, Ryder, in 2016. Ben’s greatest pride was his family, and nothing made him happier than watching his children grow and being a part of their lives.

In addition to supporting his family in every activity, Ben had a variety of passions and hobbies. He had a deep love for any form of outdoor adventure, including hunting and especially fishing. He was an avid and competitive athlete that thoroughly enjoyed watching his children, nieces and nephews in every sport they played. Specifically, he loved supporting the Nicollet basketball and softball teams and had much pride in them. His competitive nature drove his love of playing (and winning) card games, board games and other games of skill. He was a food fanatic, loved participating in fantasy football, and had a huge love for music.

Ben was a devoted husband, a loving father, a treasured son and brother, and a loyal friend. He will be remembered for the immense love he had for his family and friends, his strong athletic drive, his fun-loving spirit, and big heart. He will be deeply missed beyond words.

Ben is survived by his wife, Naomi; children, Samantha, Jaxon and Ryder; parents, Leon and Jeanne Kettner; brother, Brandon (Krista) Kettner, all of Nicollet; sister, Kari (Jamie) Mulvihill of North Mankato; step brother-in-law Christopher (Kelsey) Martz of Hermantown; brothers-in-law Jonathan (Brittany) Nelson of Minnetonka, Matthew Martz and Timothy Martz, both of Eden Prairie; sister-in law Charissa Martz of Nicollet; adoring nieces and nephews, Carson and Madison Kettner, Macie and JR Mulvihill, and Oakley, Holden and Daisy Nelson; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends who will miss him more than words can say.

Ben was preceded in death by paternal grandparents, John and Agnes Kettner; maternal grandparents Philip and Marion Stevensen; step father-in-law and mother-in-law Robert and Julie Martz; father-in-law David Nelson; and uncle, mentor and best friend, Scott Stevensen.

Ben’s family would like to extend a special thanks to the Mayo Clinic - Mankato, Mayo Clinic - Rochester and St. Croix Hospice for their care over the years; Dr. Jacob Strand and Dr. Konstantinos Leventakos for providing over 8 years of personal and exceptional attention and care; many of Ben’s very best friends and special fishing buddies who supported him through his life and battle with cancer; and a heartfelt appreciation is also extended to Joe Holtmeier, Ben’s boss and close friend.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, please consider sharing a special moment outdoors or at an athletic event with your loved ones.