Benjamin Machala

Benjamin attended Elgin High School and graduated in 2012 with a plan to study genetics at Texas A&M University. During his four years at Texas A&M Ben lived in Hart Hall where he was known as "SOULPATCH". While at A&M not only did he obtain a Bachelor’s of Science in Genetics he also had the opportunity to work on research with Dr. Glassner.

Benjamin was always passionate about science and upon graduation he was eager to begin his career in genetics. He was accepted for a position as a geneticist at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. During his time there he worked on human genome research at the Human Genome Sequencing Center. This past year Ben was extensively involved in covid-19 research and testing.

Benjamin was extremely enthusiastic about his love for science and would always find a way to bring it up in conversation. He loved teaching people interesting science facts any time they would listen. Benjamin also wished to leave the smallest carbon footprint possible. He therefore rode a bike to work, and did not own a car. Ben had a heart for the poor, especially the homeless. He combined these two often by feeding the poor on his way to work.

Benjamin is survived by his mother Laura Parker, his brothers SGT Luke A. Machala, USMC, Samuel Machala, and Michael Machala, his Step-Father, Ken Parker, and his father Thomas Machala; his step sisters Angela and Robyn, and his nieces Emmaline and Olivia Shelp.

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes you to consider making a memorial donation in Benjamin’s honor to the Salvation Army, the homeless shelter of your choice, or Eagle’s Wings Retreat Center in Burnet, Texas.