BENJAMIN “BEN” MACCONNELL

The funeral service for Benjamin “Ben” MacConnell will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, January 30, 2026 at Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Veblen. Pastor Karie Geyer and Pastor Vern Donnell will officiate the service. Spring burial will take place at the MacConnell family farm cemetery.

Visitation will be 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday, January 29, 2026 at Our Saviors Lutheran Church.

Ben passed away Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at Avera St. Luke’s in Aberdeen, at the age of 77.

An obituary and online guestbook are available at www.olsonfuneralchapel.com

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Poll: TRUMP FIGHTS FOR HIS BIRTHDAY President Donald Trump recently hosted a UFC mixed martial arts event on the White House South Lawn as part of a celebration tied to his 80th birthday and the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary. Some people view it as no different than other entertainers and performers who have appeared at White House events under various presidents. Others believe a professional fighting event was not an appropriate use of the White House grounds. What do you think?

I have no problem with it. Presidents have hosted many types of entertainers and public events at the White House.

It was unusual, but fine.

I think it was inappropriate to hold a UFC event at the White House.

Not sure/no opinion

06/16/2026 – 07/16/2100