Ben Tanaka was a respected cattleman, horseman, auctioneer, announcer, and community leader whose influence on Box Elder County and the Intermountain West spanned decades. Through his dedication to agriculture, livestock, horses, and community service, he became one of the most trusted and recognizable figures in northern Utah.
Ben began his agricultural journey through 4-H and FFA at age 11 and graduated from Bear River High School in 1943. During World War II, he volunteered as a military interpreter and continued serving in that role after the war. He farmed sugar beets, alfalfa, and wheat for 17 years before beginning a distinguished career as a livestock auctioneer.
From 1966 through the early 1990s, Ben auctioned cattle, horses, sheep, pigs, and other livestock across Utah and Idaho. He served as auctioneer for county fairs, the Golden Spike Livestock Show, the Fort Ranch Colt Sale, and the Utah State Fair Junior Livestock Sale. Known for his fairness, integrity, and humor, he worked just as hard to sell a $100 animal as he did a $5,000 champion.
Horses were his greatest passion. From draft horses to Quarter Horses, Appaloosas, and Paints, he owned, trained, and worked with them all. He was widely known as the community’s trusted horseman and became a familiar voice as an announcer for rodeos, horse races, horse shows, and county fairs throughout the region.
Ben served for decades with the Box Elder County Sheriff’s Posse, holding leadership positions as Top Hand, Foreman, and Chief. He generously donated his talents to church, youth, and charitable fundraisers and was honored with the Bear River High School Distinguished Alumni Award, Community Service Humanitarian Award, and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Box Elder County Fair Junior Livestock Auction.
A gifted singer, artist, storyteller, and devoted family man, Ben’s legacy of service, integrity, and dedication to Utah’s western heritage continues to inspire generations.