Benjamin Dwight Morrow

Benjamin Dwight Morrow was born June 18, 1956, to Dorothy Geraldine Coleman and Doyle Lee Morrow at a military base in Aurora, Colorado. Raised on military installations across the United States, Ben eventually settled with his family in Willcox, Arizona, during his youth.

In 1975, Ben was drafted to serve in Vietnam. He served two years with the 249th Combat Engineers with the United States Army and was honorably discharged, though his commitment to his country remained a lifelong calling. In 1981, he began a distinguished career as a civilian mechanic at the Tooele Army Depot, where his skill and dedication earned him numerous recognitions of excellence. During Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, Ben again stepped forward, volunteering as a civilian mechanic with US Army Central Command 22nd Support unit. Upon his return, he transferred to Hill Air Force Base, where he pioneered innovative repair procedures for F-16 jets. His expertise took him across the country to implement these techniques, concluding a 35-year career of civilian service to the military.

Ben was the deeply proud father of three daughters: Cheryl, Kathy, and Judy. His family grew to include nine grandchildren who were a source of immense joy: Alexa, Seth, and Drake Verdugo; Case, Cooper, and Lily Hinkel; and Drew, Brielle, and Allie Mercure.

In 1999, Ben met Sandy Harrold. Over their 26 years together, Ben remained ever grateful for her love and the warm friendships her family brought into his life.

A man of quiet strength and sharp wit, Ben will be remembered for his sense of humor, his devotion to his Lutheran faith, and his patriotism. He was at his happiest when outdoors—whether he was exploring nature, tending to his gardens, or running marathons. He was also remarkably proud of his journey in sobriety, celebrating 26 years of health and clarity. A lifelong animal lover, Ben was rarely seen without a furry companion by his side.

Ben passed away from complications following lung transplant surgery, after a valiant four-month fight to return home from the University of Utah Hospital. Sandy and the family wish to acknowledge the exceptional team of doctors and caregivers for their dedicated care during this time.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Doyle and Dorothy; his brother, William Morrow; and his sister, Sara Beth Morrow. He is survived by his wife, Sandy Morrow; his daughters, Cheryl (Craig) Mercure, Kathryn (Pete) Hinkel, and Judy (Delbert) Verdugo; his nine grandchildren; his brothers, Bob, Brad, and Barry Morrow; and his sisters, Barbara Simms and Becky Looper.

A Memorial Service will be held Monday May 4, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Lindquist’s Layton Mortuary, 1867 N. Fairfield Rd., Layton, Utah. A reception will follow the service at the Star Café, 1540 S. State St., Clearfield, Utah.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Ben’s name to Wounded Warriors Project.