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Hollywood Hills High School

Benjamin Killian Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Dec. 28, 2024.

Joseph Benjamin "Ben" Killian, 33, passed away unexpectedly at his family home in Dania Beach, Florida, on December 22, 2024. Ben was born on October 4, 1991, in Seaford, Delaware, and moved to Dania Beach at the age of five, where he grew up surrounded by the water, the clear blue ocean, a love for the beach, the surf and all things nautical.

Ben was born into a proud seafaring family with deep maritime roots. His parents, Joe and Rose (Dodson) Killian, operated a yacht and ship brokerage in South Florida, inspiring Ben's passion for the yachting industry. He began working on yachts at the age of 16 and, after graduating high school and briefly attending college, decided to dedicate his life to this field. Ben became a highly skilled captain, engineer, and shipwright. He founded Motif Marine LLC and earned a reputation as one of the area's finest yacht repair and refit specialists.

Ben's adventurous spirit extended beyond his work. He loved surfing, skimboarding, skateboarding, fishing, boating, piloting drones, riding motorcycles, sports cars, and trucks. His favorite place in the world was The Bahamas-a destination he visited often and described as "Heaven on Earth." He cherished fresh conch salad which he often made himself, fish tacos, and pulled pork prepared by his mother.

Ben is survived by his loving parents Joe and Rose Killian; his younger sister Rosie Killian; his beloved dog SnoBear; as well as many caring aunts, uncles, cousins, and close friends. Known for his kindness, generosity, charm, beautiful blue eyes and infectious smile, Ben brought joy to everyone he met. His family and friends are heartbroken by this loss but will forever treasure his memory.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, February 1st, 2025 at 10 AM at The Everglades Buddhist Center 915 SW 26th Street in Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315. A Reception for family and friends will be held afterward at Doric Masonic Lodge 401 SE 15th Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316. May Ben's bright light continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew him.

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Recent Activity

September 28, 2025

Joseph Francis Killian posted to the memorial.

February 1, 2025

Joseph Julieta Nycz planted trees.

February 1, 2025

Joseph and Julieta Nycz posted to the memorial.

17 Entries

Joseph Francis Killian

September 28, 2025

You are missed so very dearly my son. You were so very special. See you in my dreams.

Joseph Julieta Nycz

Planted Trees

Joseph and Julieta Nycz

February 1, 2025

Though we never actually met, only from a distance. (Many times as we live just down the street.) What we did know about you was nothing short of a wonderful man always giving unto others openheartedly. We will attend the memorial service as a means to offer our prayers of love and support to the family who need us more than ever. God Bless.

Kenneth Patrick Murphy

January 24, 2025

For Joe and Rose...May Benjamin live on forever in your hearts! You are always in my thoughts! May God Bless and Keep You...Ken Murphy 01/24

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Danielle M

January 20, 2025

This photo was taken in 2011 with a film "fortune" camera; the fortunes were random and you only found out which one each image got after developing the roll. Ben was a close friend of mine for 18 years and I will miss him terribly. My heart goes out to his family. Let's remember the good times for Ben.

Joseph Francis Killian

January 18, 2025

Our beautiful son. We miss you beyond measure.

Nancy Maldonado

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Jacqueline Christine Moorby

January 10, 2025

We are so sad to hear of Ben's passing. He was obviously well-loved and he will be greatly missed by all who he touched. Our thoughts are with you and your family at this challenging time. All love, Jacqueline and Nicola XOXOX

Maria Maldonado

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Joel Santana

January 7, 2025

Joe & Rose, God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. My deepest condolences! Your family is in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time!

Joanne Liukkonen

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Patty McConnell

January 4, 2025

So very sorry to hear this news. Thinking of your family and sending prayers during this difficult time..

Pete Woods

January 3, 2025

Joe & Rose
So very sorry to hear of your beloved son, Ben's passing. Life is not always fare but your faith and fond memories of Ben will get you thru this most difficult healing journey.
God Bless,
Pete Woods

Michael Gordon

January 3, 2025

Cousin Benny had a fun sense of humor even as a small child. His pants always looked uncomfortably tight, but he had cool hair. The thought of Ben being in good company is joyful in a way, as he will stay forever young with the others. That´s a personality that was one of a kind, however, and I´m not the only one who will truly miss it.
CFL´z

Marco Araica

December 31, 2024

Sorry Ben, you was so young to leaves us but in ours memories you always will be a hard worker, passionate and kindness. Just rest in peace my friend.