Benjamin Lehman—better known as Ben, Benj, Big Ben, or simply Pop—was born on March 12, 1954, grew up in Tinicum and later raised his family in Media, PA - a place he always considered home. He passed away very suddenly at home on Saturday, December 27, 2025.

Ben was defined by his warmth, kindness, humility, quick humor, and open heart. Above all else, he was known for the way he never put himself first. He took care of his family in a million quiet, steady ways every single day—showing up without fanfare, loving without condition, and giving without ever asking for anything in return.

Growing up in Tinicum, Ben spent his childhood riding bikes with his cousins and exploring the Delaware River. As a boy, he was both athletic and musical - playing soccer, baseball, running track and learning the trumpet and drums. He attended Germantown Lutheran Academy, where his love of sports and teamwork took root.

As a teenager, Ben began working at his father's tavern, The Tinicum Inn. It was there that he learned—and eventually perfected—the art of lifting others up with a steady listening ear, a perfectly timed joke, and, of course, a full pint. Those skills would become hallmarks of his life.

It was also at The Tinicum Inn that Ben met his other half, Janice, when she stopped in to watch the Philadelphia Phillies during the 1980 World Series. The Phillies won the Series, and Ben won the girl. They were married on May 24, 1981, beginning a partnership of 44 years rooted in love, loyalty, and laughter.

Ben was a devoted husband to Janice and a deeply loving father to Elizabeth (Emmanuel) Vlastos, Christiane (Michael) Bercik, and Michael (Jourdan) Lehman. He was a proud Pop to seven grandsons and one granddaughter—Michael, Jackson, William, Benjamin, Heidi, Calvin, Alexander, and Otto—each of whom brought him immense joy. He is also survived by his sister, Carla McLaughlin, and by his beloved corgi and constant companion, Teddy. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harvey and Neva Lehman.

Ben showed up for his family in every way, both big and small. He drove carpools, coached sports teams, made lunches, moved kids into college, built beds, planned trips, and somehow always knew when a laugh was needed most. He saw his children clearly, believed in them deeply, and made them feel safe and loved through every high and low. Once he got a cell phone, he became infamous for accidental butt dials—which usually turned into long, cherished conversations when the call was returned.

After years working alongside his father at The Tinicum Inn, Ben transitioned to full-time landscaping, most notably caring for Broomall's Lake Country Club, where his family spent many happy summers—and where his legendary can openers off the high dive are still remembered. He later spent about 15 years working at Friends' Central School and, more recently, found joy driving a bus full of young children for the Wallingford–Swarthmore School District, a role perfectly suited to his gentle spirit and steady presence.

Ben was a very hard worker and was known to take extra shifts and work overtime to provide his family with the very best opportunities for things like education and vacation experiences. He particularly loved walking the boardwalk in Ocean City, NJ and enjoying a slice from Mack & Manco.

The two great loves of Ben's life were his family and the Indianapolis 500. When he could combine the two, he was at his happiest. He began attending the race in the 1970s with his Uncle Ozzy and visited the Indianapolis Motor Speedway more than 30 times over his lifetime. He was an engaged member of the Indy 500 Club of Philadelphia and most recently served the club as Treasurer. He loved the Indy traditions, the music, the military tributes, the drivers, the cars—and most of all—the time spent together as a family.

Loving, steady, reliable, humble, and funny, Ben will be remembered for always showing up, for putting others first, and for bringing warmth and good energy wherever he went.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, January 5, 2026 at St. Mary Magdalen Church, 2400 N. Providence Rd. Media, PA 19063.  Friends may call in the church from 9:30-11 am.  Mass will begin at 11 am.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Providence Animal Center , a place near to Ben and Janice's heart.

Arrangements: Rigby Harting & Hagan Funeral Home
www.haganfuneralhome.com