Benjamin Stewart VanLue

Benjamin Stewart VanLue, 23, passed away of natural causes on January 28, 2025, in Plainfield, Indiana. Ben was born to Ryan and Mandy VanLue in Elgin, Illinois on May 31, 2001.

Ben grew up in St. Charles, Illinois, and was a beloved first son, and an adoring big brother to Claire and Pete. As the oldest, by nature, he played the role of “Mr. Responsible.” He was always caring for his younger siblings and looking out for the neighborhood kids. He had a strong faith from an early age, loved friendships, movies, music, the outdoors, disc golf, books, cooking, puzzles, and assembling impressive Lego sets.

Ben attended St. Charles East High School, where he participated in Cross Country and Band. During his high school years, he was very involved with his youth group and went on several mission trips. He received his Bachelor's Degree in Education from Iowa State University. 

His spirit for volunteering and serving others led him to become an inspiring educator with a focus in Special Education at Brownsburg High School in Indiana. Ben’s legacy is one of kindness, dedication, a profound belief in the potential of every student, and strength through God’s love. He had a gift for listening, connecting deeply with others, and treasured relationships with his students, teaching team, friends, and family. His sense of humor, focus, and understanding made an impact that will be felt in minds and hearts for years to come.

Ben’s family knows he is with the Lord and looks forward to one day reuniting for eternity.

Ben leaves behind his parents, Mandy (Rakow) and Ryan VanLue; his siblings Claire and Pete; his paternal grandmother Julie VanLue; his maternal grandmother Sue Rakow; his aunt and uncle, Paula and Aaron VanLue; cousins Jacob and Cooper; his aunt Sarah (VanLue) Taylor; cousins Samantha, Brendan and Hayden; his aunt and uncle, Stephanie (Rakow) and Paul Doran; cousins Kevin, Alex and Natalie; his aunt and uncle Jennifer (Rakow) and Larry Meyer; and cousins Julien (Claire and baby Owen) and Daniel (Danielle).

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Tom Rakow; his paternal grandfather, Ron VanLue; and his cousin, Delaney VanLue.

Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, February 21, 2025, at Chapelstreet Church, 2300 South Street, Geneva, Illinois 60134.

Arrangements entrusted to Aaron-Ruben-Nelson Funeral Home.