Biography

Ben R. Milgrim, 100, of Joplin, died July 22, 2010 at Freeman Hospital. Mr. Milgrim was born May 12, 1910 in Chetletz, Poland. He came to the United States and lived in New York City as a child before moving to Joplin in 1933. He married Pauline Brown on October 3, 1933. They opened Ben Milgrim’s Pawn Shop on Main Street in Joplin that year. He was a member of the United Hebrew Congregation, B’Nai Brith, Joplin Elks Lodge #501 for over 65 years, Joplin Masonic Lodge, a 32 degree Mason and was a life member of the National Rifle Association and the Joplin Pistol Club.

Ben and his wife Pauline operated the pawn shop for 69 years. Ben’s pawn shop became a Joplin institution. There was a time when a trip to Joplin wasn’t complete unless you stopped at Milgrim’s Pawn Shop. The number of Ben’s loyal customers was legendary, and pretty much reflected the heart and soul of Joplin.

He was preceded in death by his wife, parents Fannie and Isadore Milgrim, brother Albert Milgrim, and two sisters Pearl Silverstein and Rose Milgrim.

Surviving are four sons, Martin Milgrim and his wife Maxine of Joplin, Rabbi Eric Milgrim and his wife Susan of East Bruswick, New Jersey, Robert Milgrim and his wife Nancy of Prairie Village, Kansas and Paul Milgrim of the home; six grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.

Funeral services are scheduled for 1:00 pm on Sunday, July 25, 2010 at the United Hebrew Congregation, with Cantor Paul Silbersher officiating. Burial will follow at the Mount Hope Cemetery. In Lieu of flowers donations can be made to the United Hebrew Congregation or the Shriners Children Hospital. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.thornhilldillon.com care of the mortuary.

Funeral Services

Sunday July 25, 2010, 1:00 pm at United Hebrew Congregation
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