Bernard "Ben" Hake, age 93, of Meta, passed away on Saturday, December 14, 2019, at Capital Region Medical Center in Jefferson City. He was born in Meta on June 4, 1926, son of the late Steve Henry and Elizabeth Ann (Clark) Hake. On February 17, 1951, in Jefferson City, Ben married Alice Loethen, who survives at their home.

Ben honorably served in the United States Army during WWII. During his military service he was stationed in Germany and the Philippines. He was a member of the Argyle VFW, Iron Workers 396, and St. Cecilia Catholic Church in Meta.

Ben loved entertaining and teasing his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Some of his favorite things were playing music, hunting, fishing and going to the boat.

Ben never met a stranger. His nickname was "Gentle Ben" for a reason.

In addition to his loving wife, Alice, he is also survived by three daughters, Debbie Wieberg (Charlie) of Meta, Linda Tomassi (Richard) of Brinktown, and Jada Barhorst (Craig) of Orlando, Florida; ten grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; one sister, Rose Libbert of Meta; one brother, Walter "Cutler" Hake of Holts Summit; and several nieces, nephews, family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Bernard Jason Hake; three brothers, James Hake, Ed Hake, and Charlie Hake; and two sisters, Bernice Stokes and Mary Ann Lawson.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, December 18, at St. Cecilia Catholic Church in Meta with Fr. Rob Fields, Fr. James Finder, and Fr. Leonard Mukiibi officiating. Interment with military honors will be held in St. Cecilia Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m., with a prayer service at 4 p.m., on Tuesday, December 17, at St. Cecilia Catholic Church in Meta.

Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Jude.