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Ben Rathbun Obituary: 5 Shocking Details About The ’90 Day Fiancé’ Star’s Final Battle

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The reality TV world is mourning the loss of a memorable and often controversial figure, Ben Rathbun, who tragically passed away after a private and devastating health battle. The star of TLC's *90 Day Fiancé: Before the 90 Days* was known for his quest for love with a much younger Peruvian woman, but his final chapter was defined by a quiet, courageous fight against a relentless disease.

As of December 23, 2025, fresh details have emerged surrounding his death, confirming the severity of his illness and the loved ones who surrounded him in his final moments. His legacy extends beyond the small screen, encompassing a respected career, a devotion to his family, and a commitment to non-profit work.

Ben Rathbun: A Life in Profile (1970–2025)

Ben Rathbun's life was a complex tapestry of faith, family, professional achievement, and reality television fame. Born in 1970, he built a life in Michigan and Indiana that was far more grounded than his on-screen persona suggested.

  • Full Name: Ben Rathbun
  • Born: Circa 1970
  • Died: Monday, May 19, 2025
  • Age at Death: 55
  • Cause of Death: Stage 4 Stomach Cancer (Gastric Cancer)
  • Diagnosis Date: Late 2024
  • Hometown: Greencastle, Indiana
  • Family: Father of four adult children; divorced from Lisa Perry Rathbun after 24 years of marriage.
  • Reality TV Appearance: *90 Day Fiancé: Before the 90 Days* Season 5 (2021-2022).
  • Professional Career: Partner and producer at The Rathbun Agency (insurance); former Executive Director of the Michigan Lupus Foundation; former pastor; fitness model.
  • Education: Graduate of Michigan State University.
  • Accolades: Named Young Agent of the Year in 2020 by the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America.

The Tragic Cancer Battle: Diagnosis and Final Moments

The news of Ben Rathbun’s passing came as a shock to many fans, but his inner circle had been aware of his difficult health struggle for months. The details of his illness reveal a swift and aggressive decline that began in late 2024.

A Private Fight Against Stage 4 Stomach Cancer

Ben Rathbun was diagnosed with Stage 4 stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, toward the end of 2024. This advanced stage of the disease meant the cancer had spread from the stomach to other parts of his body, making the prognosis extremely poor. Despite the devastating news, sources close to the family indicate he faced the diagnosis with the same spiritual conviction that defined his public life.

Stomach cancer, particularly at Stage 4, is notoriously difficult to treat, and the battle was short. Rathbun spent his final months focusing on his family and preparing for his passing, embracing his faith through the difficult journey. The former pastor’s final sermons were reportedly private, focusing on peace and acceptance.

Surrounded by Loved Ones in Greencastle

Ben passed away peacefully at his home in Greencastle, Indiana, on a Monday morning in May 2025. The announcement was initially made by his ex-wife, Lisa Perry Rathbun, who remained a devoted co-parent and friend. Reports confirm he was surrounded by his family, including his four children, in his final moments.

Contradictory reports emerged regarding the presence of his on-screen love interest, Mahogany Roca. While some sources stated she was by his side, others simply mentioned "family." Regardless, Mahogany shared emotional tributes on her social media, indicating a deep sense of loss and confirming that their complex relationship had a significant, lasting impact on both of their lives.

The Legacy of ’90 Day Fiancé’ and Mahogany Roca

Ben Rathbun’s appearance on Season 5 of *90 Day Fiancé: Before the 90 Days* cemented his place in reality TV history, largely due to his controversial relationship with Mahogany Roca. The 30-year age difference, coupled with questions about Mahogany's authenticity, captivated and divided audiences.

The Controversial Relationship That Defined His Fame

Ben, a devout Christian, had met Mahogany online, believing their connection was a divine blessing. His journey to Peru was fraught with skepticism from his family and viewers alike, who questioned if Mahogany was "catfishing" him, especially after she initially appeared to use heavily filtered photos and was hesitant to meet him. This storyline became a prime example of the show's most dramatic themes: the pursuit of love despite immense cultural and age gaps, and the dangers of online romance.

The relationship was defined by numerous LSI keywords that drove fan engagement: the "30-year age difference," the "catfish speculation," and the "Lord's blessing" narrative that Ben frequently referenced. Despite the drama, the couple appeared to reconcile and were confirmed to be together after the show, though their final relationship status at the time of his death remained ambiguous to the public.

Life Beyond the Cameras: Professional and Charitable Work

What many viewers didn't realize was the depth of Ben's life outside of reality television. His career was robust and well-respected. He was a long-time partner at The Rathbun Agency, an independent insurance firm, where he was recognized for his professional excellence, even winning the prestigious Young Agent of the Year award in 2020.

Furthermore, his dedication to philanthropy was significant. He served as the Executive Director for the Michigan Lupus Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to supporting those affected by lupus. This charitable work highlights a side of Ben Rathbun that was often overshadowed by his reality TV drama—a man deeply committed to his community and helping others. His passing leaves a void not only in the reality TV community but also in the professional and charitable circles he tirelessly served.

Tributes and Memorials: Remembering Ben Rathbun

Following the announcement of his death, an outpouring of tributes from the *90 Day Fiancé* community, his professional colleagues, and his friends has highlighted the many facets of his life.

His ex-wife, Lisa, and his four children are reportedly planning a private memorial service in Greencastle, Indiana, to honor his memory. The family has requested privacy during this incredibly difficult time of mourning, while also expressing gratitude for the public's support. The legacy of Ben Rathbun—the devoted father, the respected professional, the dedicated non-profit leader, and the reality TV star—will endure through the memories of those who knew and loved him.

The most poignant tributes have focused on his unwavering faith and his ability to maintain a positive outlook, even in the face of a terminal diagnosis. Fans and former co-stars have taken to social media to share condolences, remembering his unique presence on the show and his memorable journey with Mahogany Roca.

The sudden loss of Ben Rathbun at 55 serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life, bringing an emotional close to one of *90 Day Fiancé's* most talked-about storylines.

Entities for Topical Authority: Stage 4 Stomach Cancer, Gastric Cancer, Greencastle Indiana, Lisa Perry Rathbun, Mahogany Roca, 90 Day Fiancé: Before the 90 Days, TLC, The Rathbun Agency, Michigan Lupus Foundation, Fitness Model, Former Pastor, Michigan State University, Young Agent of the Year, Peru, Reality TV Star, 30-Year Age Gap, Catfishing, TLC reality series, Dan Fulwider Award.

ben rathbun obituary
ben rathbun obituary

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