We will remember Ben Williams

Since learning of Ben Williams’ death last week, I’ve been grieving with his many family and friends in Iqaluit, Arctic Bay, Inuvik, and across Canada.

Ben was a bright young man, loved and loving in his family, skilled and confident on the land, and dedicated to serving and protecting the public through his chosen career in the RCMP. Those who knew and loved Ben will remember him always in the prime of life, his ready smile a demonstration of his zest for living.

I treasure the memory of a certain day last summer, when I attended the second birthday party for Ben and Virginia’s daughter Kiersten. It was a glorious sunny day at Apex, with the sky deep blue and the water reflecting in an even deeper shade: perfect for a birthday picnic. Friends and family of all ages gathered for food, games, laughter, and the pleasure of watching a little girl opening her many gifts. Ben was busy enjoying his little girl’s special day, and capturing her fun with a video camera.

In this past sad week, when my thoughts were never far from Ben’s family, I also had the opportunity to share a very happy moment with another family who were friends from Iqaluit. At the National Aboriginal Achievement Awards dinner in Saskatoon last Thursday night, I found myself seated at the same table as Allan and Eliza Kingdon, and their daughter Fauna, the recipient of the 2005 Youth Aboriginal Achievement Award. What a wonderful honour for Fauna, for her family, and for all those in Iqaluit who played a role in shaping her into the impressive young woman she is. How fortunate to have the chance to celebrate in the midst of a time of grief.

Yes, life goes on, and we will continue to celebrate amongst the living. As we carry on living though, we will remember Ben Williams. He lived his short life to the fullest and contributed to the lives of others. He leaves a big empty place in his family, in the community, and in the RCMP. We feel the pain of that empty place keenly, and yet there is something to celebrate too, in the memories held by each of us whose lives were enriched by knowing Ben.

My thoughts and prayers are with Virginia, Kiersten, Aiden, Rebekah, Glen, May, Virgil, and all of Ben’s family.

Nora Sanders
Regina