Benjamin Don Svoboda's Obituary
On February 16th, 2026, Benjamin “Ben” D. Svoboda passed away at Sugar Land Methodist Hospital, after a brief illness and a short stay in hospice care. Before his passing, he had the opportunity to meet with his children for a final briefing, providing them with instructions and assigning tasks.
Ben was born on December 3, 1939, in Wahoo, Nebraska, to Anton and Ludmilla (née Trutna) Svoboda. He grew up on the family farm outside Mead, Nebraska, where he was joined by his brothers John and Paul, and his sister Ruth. A true farm boy at heart, Ben developed the habit of rising early to complete his chores before beginning the rest of his day. His hard work helped the family dairy farm earn award-winning recognition. Ben was also active in 4-H and became an outstanding cattle showman, regularly out-performing older youth.
With his mother's guidance, Ben's education thrived. He had perfect Sunday School attendance from grades 1 to 12 at the First Presbyterian Church of Wahoo, Nebraska. He attended Mead Public Schools and graduated from Mead High School in 1957. Ben later attended the University of Nebraska, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree.
As graduation approached, Ben, like many young people, sought a way to finance his education. While still in high school, he enlisted in the Nebraska Army National Guard, launching a long and distinguished military career. Ben began as a Private First Class Cannoneer and later advanced to Specialist 5 in Aviation Maintenance. He then attended Officer Candidate School, earning a commission. Ben led a maintenance unit before transitioning to active duty and eventually completing Helicopter Pilot training.
As a helicopter pilot, Ben completed several operational assignments, including deployments to Korea and the Dominican Republic. He later transitioned to the Medical Service Corps branch of the Army. Overall, Ben had assignments in Nebraska, Missouri, Alabama, South Korea, Kansas, South Vietnam, Colorado, Texas, and Germany. Ben served an active-duty career for 20 years, retiring in 1981 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. His service was recognized with several awards, including the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, and the Army Commendation Medal.
After retiring from active duty, Ben remained active, transitioning his military expertise into the burgeoning field of medical imaging. His first civilian job was with R.P. Kincheloe as a Service Technician, which eventually brought him and his family to the Houston area. He later joined General Electric, where he worked on medical imaging installations and service contracts for 25 years, retiring in 2011.
Ben was a lifelong member of the Presbyterian Church, serving in various roles, including choir member, Elder, and Stephen Minister. He was an active member of First Presbyterian Church of Sugar Land from 1989 onward. Singing in the choir was a lifelong passion for Ben, and he participated in various choral groups, including the chorus at Sweetgrass, several cruises, and Mo-Ranch.
He was also a strong advocate for spiritual growth, attending retreats such as the Men's Retreat at Mo-Ranch in Hunt, Texas. Ben taught Sunday School classes for 7th graders (and even for 70-year-olds), and he led devotionals. His faith and belief in service also led him to serve on the board of Fort Bend Family Promise.
Ben was preceded in death by his parents, Anton and Ludmilla, and his sister, Ruth. He is survived by his wife, Ellen; children: Peter (wife Jeana), Connie (husband Calvin), Nancy (husband Anthony), and Debbie (husband Shawn); grandchildren: Mallory (husband David), Kirstin (husband Josh), Richard, Julia, Daniel (wife Amanda), Madeline, Andrew and Norah; great-grandchildren: Wyatt, Kyrie, Ava, and Ellie; brothers: John (wife Joyce) and Paul (wife Cheryl); and brother-in-law Gary.
The family will welcome visitors during a visitation at Clayton Funeral Home in Pearland on Friday, February 27th, at 6:00 PM. A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held on Saturday, February 28th, at 11:00 AM at First Presbyterian Church of Sugar Land, followed by a reception. Afterward, a graveside service will take place on March 6th, at 11:00 AM at the Omaha National Cemetery in Papillion, Nebraska.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Fort Bend Family Promise, Mo-Ranch or First Presbyterian Church of Sugarland.
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