Funeral Details

It was my privilege to have worked with Benjamin at Kellogg. He always had a big smile and a hearty Hello! Kathy and Meredith I hope that your fond memories of him comfort you at this very difficult time. Gone too soon. Sending hugs and prayers. Carol

Carol Clark

I have known Kathleen, Ben’s mother, for decades. The two happiest days of her life were her first look at her son and then beloved daughter, Meredith. This is a sad day for this fine family. Our deepest sympathy to you all.

Karyn and Richard Conrath

My thoughts and prayers are with Kathy and Meredith. Kathy and I have known each other forever. Benjamin was quite the favorite of Gregory. He used to babysit for Greg and was such a big teddy bear. So many memories I could share. Last time we visited Ben was home and we thankfully were able to visit for a short time. Heartbroken does not cover all the emotions I know you are feeling. I wish I could put my arms around you all. Our love to you—Kathy and Greg

Kathleen Hopper

A beautiful man who gave nothing but love to the world and asked for nothing in return. The communities lucky enough to have known Ben will never recover. I know I won’t.

Adam Goldstein

This is one of the worst things to befall a family. My heart goes out to Kathy, Meredith and Lilly. Although I am not related by blood, they are family. Most of us know the pain of losing a loved one and wish we could do something to ease their pain. I send my love to Kathy, Meredith and Lilly.

Nancy Altman

My condolences to the family. He always expressed himself in how much he loved his niece, his mom and his sister. It was always fun to hear his funny stories about his family. Narciso and I worked with Ben over 7 years at NU, Ben was like a work brother to us. He knew my kids and I want to say that my kids loved him too. It was always fun working on a Sunday with him, moments like eating our breakfast in the office at 8:30 in the morning and pretending we were busy working. Most definitely he is going to be missed.

Rest in peace Ben.

From the Lara Family.

Narciso & María Lara

The thoughts come rolling back like a tidal wave hearing about you. So many great memories forever kept in my mind and on camera. From your amazing cooking skills to your infectious smile and laugh, it’ll all be missed. Taken too soon Brother. I’m going to miss you something fierce.

Rich Timm

When my brother moved to Colorado, he appointed Ben my “stand-in” brother. He was perfect for the role. I’m so grateful to him for being such a good friend to my brother over the years, and to me. I’ll miss him immensely. And, Ben, I still promise I’ll give pork belly another try. Rest peacefully, friend.

Kiersten Rippeteau

Sending love and support to Meredith, Lilly and Kathy. So sorry about your loss. He loved you three very much. Xoxo Amy Potter

Amy Potter

Wishing the family peace at this difficult time. Ben shared so much laughter and love always. I was lucky to work along the side of him in culinary school but what blossomed was a beautiful, genuine friendship. I feel honored to have spent time with Ben the last 20 years. You will be missed so much.

Amie Autenrieth

I remember first meeting Ben over a dinner with friends in DC, and I was struck by his immensely positive attitude- tinged with just a bit of sarcasm, which was perfect- and knowing that despite the distance, we would be good friends. We would meet up in DC and Chicago, trying awesome food and cocktails, and texting every few weeks (I was his platonic ECB, or East Coast Boo, and he was my platonic MWB, or Mid West Boo). Knowing I will never get another “What’s up, ECB?” Is devastating, but I will think of him often. He got me a special picture from one of our friend meetups in Chicago that is hung in my hall, which I look at daily, and will be my frequent reminder he is always here. Luv you, bud. <3

Nicole Porcaro

I wanted to send my deepest condolences. Ben was such an amazing friend. Always there not matter the circumstance. I shared so many great memories with him. May his memory live on forever!
Love,
Jon Fox

Jon Fox

One of a few, rare people who could come in & out of your life at different times and be right on the same page with you. I have many memories during a time in my life when building them with a friend like Ben was important. Compassionate, critical & funny - his personality in some ways shaped my own, and for that I’m grateful. Happy that I get to carry Ben with me for the rest of this relatively short run we all have together. Many cheers for everything, brother.

John and Tanya Cascarano

I knew Ben through mutual friends here in Texas. We talked often in our group and had a lot in common. I knew he was a great person almost immediately and wanted to be friends. I’m sad I was not able to meet him in person and take him to the Houston Rodeo to sample the great food and atmosphere. He was very kind and thoughtful when anyone was going through something. This world has truly lost a great person.

Beau Clark

My first memory of Ben was sharing cigars lit by a brûlée torch at the wedding of our mutual friend. After I got to know him more, that initial manner of our meeting felt increasingly appropriate. Ben lived in Illinois, but became an honorary Texan when he joined our group chat and Zoom whiskey hours during the Pandemic. He shared with us his love of cutlery, whiskey, recipes, and jokes; his collections of them all; and his ups and downs. It really did not feel like he was miles away. It felt like he had always been a buddy.

On Wednesday, my last message from Ben exemplified the joy, positivity, and encouragement he brought to all of us 8 goofy Texans in the thread. It reads, "This win isn't just a win for you. Or a win for this motley crew. ITS A WIN FOR AMERICA!"

What a guy.

Tonight, those of us here in Texas will be pouring our whiskey in honor of Ben and sharing our best memories of him. Just sorry we can't do it with more people who knew and loved him.

Justen Barks

Rest in Peace, Ben. It was a privilege to know you during the short time we shared. You brought love and laughter everywhere you went and will be missed by many. Thank you for being you.

Adam Pearson

Such an amazing, kind, caring man gone to soon! Rest in Peace Ben! You will never be forgotten!

Robert Moser

I couldn't have asked for a better big brother, and I'm so lucky he chose to be mine.

Claire McGregor

Our sincere condolences for your loss. Your family was wonderful neighbors and you all were missed when you moved from Winnetka. Take care, our thoughts are with all of you during this sad time.

Donna Dowdle