September 1974 – September 2025
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Ben Kuehling, a beloved son, brother, and friend, who left us too soon on September 8, at the age of 50, following a brief illness. Born and raised in Ouray, Colorado, Ben’s generosity, wit, and easygoing nature touched everyone who knew him. He is survived by his mother, Elizabeth Kuehling of Ouray, and his sister, Lauri Kuehling Zembower of Tennessee. He was preceded in death by his father, Benjy Kuehling, in 2020.
A 1994 graduate of Ouray High School, Ben went on to earn a degree in history education, with a minor in geology, from Northern Arizona University. After college, he returned to the mountains he loved and carried on his family’s legacy as the owner of the Columbine Mineral Shop, a treasured Ouray business operating since 1966.
Ben enjoyed friendly competition and developed deep friendships through weekly poker games, participating in the Montrose summer softball league, supporting the Ouray high school basketball teams, and managing his fantasy football team during NFL season.
All are invited to a memorial service on Saturday, October 11, at 11:00 a.m. at the United Church of the San Juans in Ridgway.
Ouray County Plaindealer • 2025
