| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ben Arnet |
| Age | 43 |
| Residence | Columbia, Missouri |
| Profession | Sports Journalist, Sports Director at KOMU-TV (NBC affiliate) |
| Education | University of Missouri School of Journalism |
| Career Highlights | Covered sports in Arizona, Kansas, New York, and Missouri; nearly a decade with Mizzou Athletics; mentor at MU Journalism School |
| Date of Passing | August 28, 2025 |
| Known For | Passion for sports storytelling, mentoring young journalists, leadership at KOMU |
Ben Arnet Obituary
The journalism and sports world is mourning the sudden loss of Ben Arnet, a well-known sports journalist and KOMU sports director, who unexpectedly passed away on August 28, 2025, at the age of 43. His passing was confirmed live on-air by his colleagues at KOMU 8 News, an NBC affiliate in Columbia, Missouri, where Ben had served as sports director for the past five years.
A Career Dedicated to Storytelling
Born and raised in Columbia, Missouri, Ben Arnet built his career on a passion for both sports and storytelling. After graduating from the Missouri School of Journalism, he began covering sports across the country, including in Arizona, Kansas, and upstate New York, before returning home to Missouri.
For nearly a decade, he reported extensively for Mizzou Athletics, where he became a familiar voice to sports fans. In recent years, his leadership at KOMU established him as not only a trusted sportscaster but also a mentor who guided the next generation of journalists.
A Mentor and Leader at KOMU
As sports director, Ben saw his role as more than just reporting scores. He believed in nurturing student journalists, showing them the ropes, and instilling in them the ethics and passion needed to thrive in media. His colleagues remember him as a teacher, mentor, and friend who valued collaboration and team spirit.
KOMU General Manager Matt Garrett reflected:
“Being the sports director at KOMU 8 means bringing students with you every step of the way. Sometimes that can be difficult if you don’t have the passion that Ben had for seeing the next generation of sports journalists take shape in front of his eyes. He was a tremendous asset and a landmark in the journeys of the students and staff who worked with him. He won’t be forgotten in mid-Missouri.”
Tributes from the Journalism Community
David Kurpius, Dean of the Missouri School of Journalism, called Ben a “dedicated mentor and consummate colleague.” He emphasized Ben’s unique ability to balance his professional work with his role as an educator and supporter of young journalists.
News anchor Taylor Freeman, announcing his passing on-air, shared the raw emotion felt across the newsroom: “This is not easy news to report. We’re still working through the news ourselves. It’ll take time to process.”
Across Missouri and beyond, colleagues and fans are expressing their sadness at the loss of a respected sportscaster whose passion and kindness touched many lives.
Remembering Ben Arnet’s Legacy
Though his life ended too soon, Ben’s legacy remains alive in the countless journalists he mentored, the sports fans he informed, and the community he loved. He embodied what it meant to serve both viewers and students—with honesty, dedication, and an infectious passion for sports.
His colleagues at KOMU and the University of Missouri emphasize that while his voice will be missed on the air, his influence will continue through the careers of the journalists he guided.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who was Ben Arnet?
Ben Arnet was a 43-year-old sports journalist and sports director at KOMU-TV in Columbia, Missouri. He was also a mentor at the University of Missouri School of Journalism.
How did Ben Arnet pass away?
Ben unexpectedly passed away on August 28, 2025. The cause of death has not been publicly reported.
What was his career background?
He covered sports in Arizona, Kansas, and New York before returning to Missouri, where he worked nearly 10 years for Mizzou Athletics and later led KOMU’s sports department.
What was he known for?
Ben was known for his storytelling ability, leadership, and dedication to mentoring young journalists at KOMU and MU’s School of Journalism.
How is the community responding?
Colleagues, students, and sports fans have shared heartfelt tributes, remembering his passion, mentorship, and kindness.
Conclusion
The sudden passing of Ben Arnet leaves behind a tremendous void in the world of journalism and sports reporting. His impact extended far beyond the newsroom—he was a teacher, mentor, and role model whose influence will carry on in the lives of those he inspired.
Though he is no longer here to share stories from the sidelines, his legacy of passion, service, and mentorship ensures that his voice will echo through generations of journalists and sports lovers. Ben’s memory will live on in the heart of Missouri and beyond.
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