Benjamin (Ben) Eugene Burd, 32, passed away peacefully at home in Knob Noster, Missouri on October 24, 2026 after a brave battle with brain cancer.

Ben was born on July 27, 1994, in Fort Wayne, Indiana and spent his early years in Indianapolis, Indiana where he loved the marching band, fire trucks, and spending summers in Angola, Indiana with his grandfather.

After graduating from high school, he proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 2012 to 2024. During his enlistment, he was stationed at Whiteman Air Force Base, serving as a crew chief on the B2 bomber. He was proud of his service and cherished the many friendships he gained along the way.

While stationed at Whiteman Air Force Base, he met the love of his life Bailey, and they were married in 2021. They had two children, Peyton (4) and Maxwell (1).

His true passion and calling was Firefighting and EMS. He loved serving his community and helping others. After relocating to Knob Noster for the military, Ben quickly got involved in the local first responder community. Throughout his 20s and 30s, he volunteered for Johnson County Fire Protection District, Knob Noster Fire Department, and worked part-time as an Emergency Medical Technician for Johnson County Ambulance District. His commitment to public safety reflected the very heart of who he was - someone who found purpose in being there for others, especially when they needed him most.

Ben was the heart of his family and friends. Some say their circle came together because of him. He belonged to many groups of friends, and each remembered the same man: someone who welcomed them, listened closely, and showed up when they needed him. His contagious laugh filled a room, and his smile was impossible not to return.

Ben was proceeded in death by his grandmother, Patricia Burd; uncle, Michael Burd; and uncle Robert Burd.

Ben is survived by his wife, Bailey, of Knob Noster, Missouri; Children, Peyton & Maxwell, of Knob Noster, Missouri; parents Joan Burd and Michael Halikowski o Indianapolis, Indiana; grandfather, Eugene Burd of Angola, Indiana; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who became family.

A visitation will be held Wednesday, October 28th , 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Sweeney-Phillips & Holdren Funeral Home in Warrensburg, Missouri. A funeral service will be held Thursday, October 29th , 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at Northside Christian Church in Warrensburg, Missouri. A graveside service will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Higginsville, Missouri.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Benjamin Burd Memorial Fund with checks made payable to Bailey Burd. Contributions may be left in care of the funeral home.