Benjamin Wilson Tice

MSG (Ret) Benjamin Wilson Tice, Sr., 92, passed away on February 5, 2012. Known lovingly by his grandchildren as “Peepa”, he was born in Baltimore, Maryland on September 13, 1919 and raised in the Tampa, Florida area. He was preceded in death by his twin brother Cliff, his parents Elizabeth and Henry Clifford Tice, and his niece Carlena Wright. Ben Sr. is survived by his wife of 60 years, Olga Tice, children Benjamin W. Tice, Jr. (Susan) and Robert V. Tice (Trinh), grandchildren Justin (Jenn), Kimberly (his “Butterfly”), and Ashley Tice, and one great grandchild, Ethan Clark Tice. Ben served over 30 years in the US Army, jokingly telling friends he had decided to not make it his career! He retired in 1969 and began his second career as a real estate broker with Bill Walker Realty in El Paso. While serving as a Field Artillery Forward Observer attached to the 31st Infantry Division in World War II (Pacific Theatre) he received the Bronze Star, as well as the Good Conduct Medal (Silver Clasp with 4 Loops), and the Army Commendation Medal. Ben was very proud of his participation in the liberation of the Philippines, having been involved in fierce fighting on Mindanao and Morotai. One of his favorite stories involved his boots, which had literally fallen apart after weeks of harsh conditions on Mindanao. After several failed attempts to drop boots to his unit, a transport spotter pilot radioed as to what size he wore, took off his own boots, and dropped them successfully on their position! Ben enjoyed fishing, coin collecting and spending time with his grandchildren, and adopted grandchildren! He enjoyed having conversations with the neighborhood children and was a great story teller and mentor to them. “Peepa” was loved by many and will be greatly missed. The family wishes to thank our family and friends for their support during this most difficult time and request that, in lieu of flowers, contributions be made in Ben’s honor to a favorite charity. We love you, Peepa! Commital Service will be held at 10:30am, Thursday, February 9, 2012 at Fort Bliss National Cemetery with Full Military Honors.