Benjamin Harold 'Ben' Harnish, a member of 'The Greatest Generation,' died Sunday, July 20, 2008, in Seattle. He was 87. Ben was born July 12, 1921, in rural Montana. He enlisted in the Coast Guard when World War II broke out. He volunteered for combat duty and saw action throughout the Pacific Theater. Ben was awarded four battle stars and several other medals. After the war, Ben graduated from business college and embarked in a successful sales career. He eventually purchased a supermarket in Connell, Washington, which became Ben's Thrift. He built the business until he retired in 1987. He served on the city council and Chamber of Commerce in Connell and was a member of the Elks and American Legion. He also was a life member of the Masons. Ben and his wife, Merle, who survives, have lived in Burlington, Washington, since 1987. Ben is survived by three children: Robert, now of Spokane, Washington; Connie Anderson, Vancouver, Washington; and John, Kennewick, Washington. He also is the proud stepfather to Merle's children: Richard, Fort Worth, Texas; Jane Bolton, Midlothian, Texas; Bob, Marysville, Washington; and Shelley McMahon, Lake Stevens, Washington. Mueller's Funeral Home in Kennewick is in charge of arrangements. A celebration of Ben's life will be held Saturday, August 9, 2008, at 2 p.m. at the Connell Community Center, 211 E. Elm St. Remembrances may be made to the United Service Organizations USO.