Hospitalman Benjamin David Rast, 23, of Niles, passed away Wednesday, April 6, 2011while serving his country in Afghanistan after being hit by a hellfire missile.

Ben was born Dec. 24, 1987 in South Bend to Robert David Rast and Diane Brodbeck. He was preceded in death by his mother, Diane, and a brother, Robert D. Rast Jr.

Surviving are his father, Robert David (Dolores) Rast of South Bend; stepfather Jerome Tibone of Niles; stepsister, Tamara (Chad) Wise of Lakeville; and a stepbrother, Timothy (Jennifer) Barhydt of Mishawaka.

Ben was a 2006 graduate of Brandywine High School. While he was a student, football was his one true passion. After graduating high school, Ben went on to study at Lake Michigan College. He majored in law enforcement and was a member of the Phi Theta Kappa National Honor Society. He enlisted in the Navy on Sept. 4, 2008 and was stationed in San Diego, Calif. Then in February 2011 he volunteered to go to Afghanistan.

Family and friends may visit Friday from 4 to 8 p.m. in Brandywine High School Auditorium, 1700 Bell Rd., Niles, where funeral services will be held Saturday at 11 a.m.

Burial will follow in Fairview Cemetery, Mishawaka, where full military honors will be rendered.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Rast family.

Hahn Funeral Home, 505 West Eighth St., Mishawaka has been entrusted with the final arrangements.

To leave the family an online condolence or to share memories with the family, please visit www.hahnfuneralhomes.com.