SOUTH THOMASTON — Dana Ralph Benner, 54, set off for his final voyage June 16, 2015, being forever known as a man of many “Bigs.”

He was born Sept. 16, 1960, to Roland and Sarah Dennison Benner of South Thomaston. Growing up in a large family, whether in the area or "down home" in Friendship or South Waldoboro, Dana developed his love for them all and everything nature had to offer. He could be seen hunting, riding his horse, Two Cents, helping his Uncle Norman Dennison at the saw mill or in the mudflats with his father.

He started clamming at a young age, expanding his love for the ocean while attending area schools. Soon after graduating from Rockland District High School in 1978 he began big boat scalloping and planning to go on an overseas fishing trip. Meeting his best friend and true love, Sandra Munro, would change his path to an even bigger adventure.

They created their home on the Grierson Road and were married Oct. 15, 1983. They began raising their four children and playing a major role in the lives of many others. Dana's door was always open, filled with generosity, laughter and love. His kind heart, gentle soul and warm embrace could make anyone smile. He would offer anything he had to another in need, even if he was left without.

Throughout life Dana continued to learn about the ocean and how to fish its creatures. He put his big stature and big hands to work aboard many O'Hara Co. fishing boats. Wanting to be closer to his family, he began lobstering in 1990. Though out at sea often, Dana was always a big presence when on land. He kept his family and friends close, making memories together while visiting, attending functions, recreational fishing and hunting. He enjoyed telling jokes and stories, sharing all his knowledge. His big size, big hands, big voice, big eyes and very big heart will forever be remembered by his loving family, friends and all the lives he touched throughout his life.

Dana is predeceased by his parents, uncles, many aunts, and cousins. Surviving family includes his Loving wife, Sandra Benner; his sons, Jason Benner and his wife, Cat, and James Benner and his fiancée, Leanne Palmer; two daughters, Brittany Benner and Brianne Benner and her partner, Mark Stultz; the fathers of some of his grandchildren whom he considered as son's, Nate and Matt; 12 grandchildren who called him 'PaPa', Kelvin Benner, Elsie and Layla Benner, Jesse and Lucian Knowlton, Natalie Spearin, Aj, Gabriella and Gracen Gibbons, and Ashli, Jasper and Hunter; one great-grandson, Corban; three brothers, Raney and his wife Jean, Dennis and Darren; his sister, Ava Wytiaz and her husband, Jim, and all their families; his girls, Katie Audette and Jessie Hooper, including all the kids who grew up at his house and he considered his own. Also remembering Lloyd Gray, James Graf, Dale Witham, and many extended close family and friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit Wednesday, June 24 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock St. in Rockland, where a funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M., Thursday, June 25 at 11 a.m. The Rev. Wayne Sawyer will officiate.