Ben's Final Hike - In Loving Memory of Ben Wacha

Benjamin "Ben" Wacha of Corvallis, Oregon, passed away on Friday, May 12, 2023, at the age of 35. Ben was born on February 16, 1988, in West Hills, California to Shelly Richards of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Dallas Wacha, of Kansas City, Missouri. Ben grew up in Lisle, Illinois, before moving to Sugar Land, Texas, where he graduated from Clements High School in 2006. He graduated from University of Texas at San Antonio.

Ben will be remembered for his love of nature and his passion for taking care of the environment. He spent countless hours hiking, bicycling, and gardening. He fulfilled several dreams by hiking the 2,198-mile Appalachian Trail, the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail, and the southernmost 180 miles of the Continental Divide Trail. He also climbed to the peaks of several Colorado 14'ers. Along his journeys, he touched nearly all 50 states, and he made many human and animal friends.

Ben's next goal was to complete the 3,100 mile Continental Divide Trail to achieve his dream of earning The Triple Crown of Hiking. The Triple Crown of Hiking is achieved after completing the three major trails in the United States: the Appalachian trail, the Pacific Crest Trail, and the Continental Divide Trail.

Ben's girlfriend, Sarah Brandt, is also an avid hiker and lover of nature. As Sarah embarks on her journey to complete the Continental Divide Trail, she will be carrying Ben's creamains with her and helping to make his final dream come true. Any funds raised will be used to support Sarah on her hike with Ben by helping to cover the cost for equipment, supplies, food, and an occasional place to stay. We are so grateful for her love for Ben and her willingness to make this happen.

If you would like to follow along on Ben’s journey with Sarah, please follow @bensfinalhike on Instagram. 

Thank you for your support.