Benjamin John Jeitz

Benjamin Jeitz died Monday, February 2, 2026, at his home in Crystal, Minnesota. Visitation will be from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Friday, February 6, 2026, at Zniewski Funeral Home in Benson, Minnesota. Visitation will continue from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 7, 2026, at West Zion Lutheran Church in rural Hancock, Minnesota, with the funeral service to follow at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be at the West Zion Lutheran Church Cemetery. Zniewski Funeral Home of Benson is assisting the family with arrangements. 

Benjamin John Jeitz was born March 16, 1977, in Starbuck, Minnesota, the son of LaMont and Norma (Tollefson) Jeitz. He was baptized in 1977 and confirmed in 1992 at West Zion Lutheran Church in rural Hancock. Ben grew up and attended school in the Starbuck area, graduating from Minnewaska Area High School. He continued his education at Concordia College, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree in vocal performance, and went on to pursue further studies at the Peabody Conservatory of Music. Throughout his education, Ben received numerous awards for excellence in vocal, piano, and organ performance.

Ben dedicated much of his life to church music, serving as a music director in several congregations and, most recently, as Director of Music at First Lutheran Church in Crystal, Minnesota. He was a member of West Zion Lutheran Church in rural Hancock and was involved in all music activities at the church.

Ben had a deep love for music that shaped much of his life. An accomplished singer, pianist, and organist, he shared his gifts generously as a private music instructor, inspiring others through both his talent and dedication. Ben was proud of his Norwegian heritage and delighted in honoring it, especially through his beloved tradition of making krumkake. He found great joy in decorating his home for every holiday, with Christmas holding a particularly special place in his heart. Above all, Ben cherished his cats, Sebastian and Maggie, who were constant companions and a source of comfort and joy in his life.

Ben was called from this life on Monday, February 2, 2026, at his home in Crystal, Minnesota. He is survived by his parents, LaMont and Norma Jeitz of Starbuck, and his sister, Andrea (Michael) Zimmerman of Lake Elmo. Ben was preceded in death by his grandparents, Ole and Agnes Tollefson, and Stanley and Sue Jeitz.

Blessed be the memory of Ben Jeitz.