Pham, Benjamin Hugh

Benjamin Hugh Pham, 13, of Cedar Rapids, was granted his angel wings at 8:02 a.m. on July 3, 2013. Ben was receiving medical care for acute asthma asphyxiation at the University of Iowa Pediatric ICU. His final days were surrounded by family and friends. Services: 2 p.m. Sunday, July 7, at Murdoch-Linwood Funeral Home, Cedar Rapids. Family will receive friends from 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday, July 6, at the funeral home. Burial: Shueyville Cemetery, Shueyville.

Following the funeral and burial there will be a Celebration of Life at his home: 6335 Palmetto Circle SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404.

Ben was born Jan. 4, 2000, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Ben is survived by his loving parents, Josh and Meana Hackman and Hugh and Duyen Pham; younger sisters, Kendall Pham and Keira Hackman; younger brothers, Ethan Hackman, Tyler Pham and Jimmy Pham; his paternal grandparents; maternal grandparents; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded by his aunt, Deng Lovan.

Ben loved to play sports and was an active young man with a strong work ethic. He played for many school teams and local organizations throughout his community. He enjoyed riding his BMX bike and especially loved fishing.

His family and friends remember him as a funny and kind boy who loved to make people laugh. Ben was a compassionate brother to his younger siblings and took great care of them and his family.

Ben's passing will remind others that his life is one to be celebrated. Although it was too short and we will miss him every day, he will forever remain in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations for Benjamin may be made to the Pham/Hackman family to help offset medical expenses.

Please sign the online guest book for Ben at www.murdochfuneralhome.com under obituaries.

Published July 5, 2013 in The Gazette