Benjamin Andrew "Ben" Wheeler, a vibrant soul whose time on Earth was far too short, was born in Manhattan, New York County, New York, on the 12th of September, 2006. Tragically, he passed away on the 14th of December 2012, at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Fairfield County, Connecticut.
Benjamin was more than just a six-year-old boy. He was a bundle of energy, a beacon of light, and a source of contagious joy. His gleeful approach to life brought delight and laughter into every space he entered, filling hearts with an inexpressible sense of warmth and mirth.
Those close to Benjamin fondly recall his insatiable enthusiasm for life. His energy was such that he often outpaced his peers, invariably engaged in some sort of action or activity. On the soccer field, his exuberant runs, frequently beyond what was necessary, were always accompanied by his infectious smile and laughter. His eager participation in the Tiger Scout Den 6 meetings at the Sandy Hook Volunteer Firehouse was a testament to his lively spirit.
The world was Benjamin's playground, full of wonders waiting to be discovered. He loved attending school, cherishing each opportunity to meet his teacher and fellow first-grade friends. Always ready to learn, Benjamin was equally enthusiastic about his swimming lessons, relishing the challenge of mastering new skills.
His love for The Beatles, lighthouses, and the number 7 train to Sunnyside, Queens, were endearing facets of his personality. His passion for lighthouses in particular left a significant mark on his family. It became an integral part of family vacations, birthday cakes, and even the decor of his shared room with his older brother, Nathaniel. In memory of his fascination with these towering beacons of light, his family established Ben's Lighthouse, a nonprofit dedicated to fostering compassion and understanding among children.
In his six short years, Benjamin touched countless lives. His boundless vitality, his ceaseless curiosity, his unyielding love for his older brother Nathaniel—each of these qualities defined Benjamin's character. He was an unstoppable force, a whirlwind of joyful energy that left a profound impact on everyone he met.
His father, David Wheeler, fondly referred to Benjamin as a "life force," a poignant description that encapsulates the essence of this remarkable child. One memorable instance of Benjamin's spirited nature is his piano recital, where his ability to sit still long enough to play a single piece was a triumphant achievement, and a moment of rare tranquility in his action-filled existence.
Benjamin's strong bond with his older brother Nathaniel was nothing short of extraordinary. Their shared bedroom was not merely a common living space but a haven for brotherly love and camaraderie. Despite their distinct personalities—with Benjamin's hyperactive disposition contrasting Nathaniel's love for reading—the brothers shared an inseparable bond. Benjamin's zest for life often pulled Nathaniel into outdoor adventures, helping him gradually step out of his shell.
The morning of December 14 was a poignant moment etched in time for Benjamin's mother, Francine Wheeler. As she reminisced about their quiet time at Starbucks, a rare moment of calm in Benjamin's otherwise high-energy life, she couldn't help but share his aspirations of becoming an architect and a paleontologist, keen to follow his older brother's footsteps.
Sadly, that day marked the end of Benjamin's journey, a life brimming with potential cut short by the tragic events at Sandy Hook Elementary School. Yet, his spirit lives on through the countless lives he touched and continues to inspire through the nonprofit set up in his memory.
Ben's Lighthouse, born out of Benjamin's love for lighthouses, stands tall as a beacon of hope and compassion. The programs and activities, such as the summer camp and the puppet show, are aimed at helping young people develop social connections and empathy—values that Benjamin exhibited throughout his life.
Remembering Benjamin today, we celebrate his love for lighthouses, his infectious laughter, his passion for soccer, and his undying love for his brother. We remember his quirky nicknames, a testament to his zest for life, and his precocious musical talent that saw him hum precise notes at a young age.
Despite his tragically short life, Benjamin left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His zest for life, infectious energy, and an undying spirit have not dimmed with his physical absence. Rather, they continue to inspire and drive people to make the world a better place, much like the lighthouses he adored.
Through the establishment of Ben's Lighthouse, his family has ensured that Benjamin's spirit continues to shine, guiding others through their darkest hours and illuminating the path towards a compassionate world. Benjamin Andrew Wheeler was not just a boy; he was, and will always remain, a beacon of hope and change. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us, much like a lighthouse guiding ships through stormy seas, towards the shores of empathy, understanding, and kindness.
Written by: Alan Owen
~~
From his parents:
Benjamin was an irrepressibly bright and spirited boy whose love of fun and excitement at the wonders of life and the world could rarely be contained. His rush to experience life was headlong, creative, and immediate. He was a devoted fan of his older brother, and the two of them together filled the house with the noise of four children. He loved the local soccer program, often running across the field long after it was actually necessary, but always smiling and laughing as he moved the ball, nearly always at full tilt. He was becoming a strong swimmer and loved his lessons. Eager to learn, he could not wait to get to school to see his teacher and his growing group of new first grade friends. Ben was also a member of Tiger Scout Den 6, which met at the Sandy Hook Volunteer Firehouse. Earlier in December, Ben performed at his piano recital, and sitting still long enough to play one piece was an accomplishment he reveled in. He loved The Beatles, lighthouses, and the number 7 train to Sunnyside, Queens.
Benjamin was more than just a six-year-old boy. He was a bundle of energy, a beacon of light, and a source of contagious joy. His gleeful approach to life brought delight and laughter into every space he entered, filling hearts with an inexpressible sense of warmth and mirth.
Those close to Benjamin fondly recall his insatiable enthusiasm for life. His energy was such that he often outpaced his peers, invariably engaged in some sort of action or activity. On the soccer field, his exuberant runs, frequently beyond what was necessary, were always accompanied by his infectious smile and laughter. His eager participation in the Tiger Scout Den 6 meetings at the Sandy Hook Volunteer Firehouse was a testament to his lively spirit.
The world was Benjamin's playground, full of wonders waiting to be discovered. He loved attending school, cherishing each opportunity to meet his teacher and fellow first-grade friends. Always ready to learn, Benjamin was equally enthusiastic about his swimming lessons, relishing the challenge of mastering new skills.
His love for The Beatles, lighthouses, and the number 7 train to Sunnyside, Queens, were endearing facets of his personality. His passion for lighthouses in particular left a significant mark on his family. It became an integral part of family vacations, birthday cakes, and even the decor of his shared room with his older brother, Nathaniel. In memory of his fascination with these towering beacons of light, his family established Ben's Lighthouse, a nonprofit dedicated to fostering compassion and understanding among children.
In his six short years, Benjamin touched countless lives. His boundless vitality, his ceaseless curiosity, his unyielding love for his older brother Nathaniel—each of these qualities defined Benjamin's character. He was an unstoppable force, a whirlwind of joyful energy that left a profound impact on everyone he met.
His father, David Wheeler, fondly referred to Benjamin as a "life force," a poignant description that encapsulates the essence of this remarkable child. One memorable instance of Benjamin's spirited nature is his piano recital, where his ability to sit still long enough to play a single piece was a triumphant achievement, and a moment of rare tranquility in his action-filled existence.
Benjamin's strong bond with his older brother Nathaniel was nothing short of extraordinary. Their shared bedroom was not merely a common living space but a haven for brotherly love and camaraderie. Despite their distinct personalities—with Benjamin's hyperactive disposition contrasting Nathaniel's love for reading—the brothers shared an inseparable bond. Benjamin's zest for life often pulled Nathaniel into outdoor adventures, helping him gradually step out of his shell.
The morning of December 14 was a poignant moment etched in time for Benjamin's mother, Francine Wheeler. As she reminisced about their quiet time at Starbucks, a rare moment of calm in Benjamin's otherwise high-energy life, she couldn't help but share his aspirations of becoming an architect and a paleontologist, keen to follow his older brother's footsteps.
Sadly, that day marked the end of Benjamin's journey, a life brimming with potential cut short by the tragic events at Sandy Hook Elementary School. Yet, his spirit lives on through the countless lives he touched and continues to inspire through the nonprofit set up in his memory.
Ben's Lighthouse, born out of Benjamin's love for lighthouses, stands tall as a beacon of hope and compassion. The programs and activities, such as the summer camp and the puppet show, are aimed at helping young people develop social connections and empathy—values that Benjamin exhibited throughout his life.
Remembering Benjamin today, we celebrate his love for lighthouses, his infectious laughter, his passion for soccer, and his undying love for his brother. We remember his quirky nicknames, a testament to his zest for life, and his precocious musical talent that saw him hum precise notes at a young age.
Despite his tragically short life, Benjamin left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His zest for life, infectious energy, and an undying spirit have not dimmed with his physical absence. Rather, they continue to inspire and drive people to make the world a better place, much like the lighthouses he adored.
Through the establishment of Ben's Lighthouse, his family has ensured that Benjamin's spirit continues to shine, guiding others through their darkest hours and illuminating the path towards a compassionate world. Benjamin Andrew Wheeler was not just a boy; he was, and will always remain, a beacon of hope and change. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us, much like a lighthouse guiding ships through stormy seas, towards the shores of empathy, understanding, and kindness.
Written by: Alan Owen
~~
From his parents:
Benjamin was an irrepressibly bright and spirited boy whose love of fun and excitement at the wonders of life and the world could rarely be contained. His rush to experience life was headlong, creative, and immediate. He was a devoted fan of his older brother, and the two of them together filled the house with the noise of four children. He loved the local soccer program, often running across the field long after it was actually necessary, but always smiling and laughing as he moved the ball, nearly always at full tilt. He was becoming a strong swimmer and loved his lessons. Eager to learn, he could not wait to get to school to see his teacher and his growing group of new first grade friends. Ben was also a member of Tiger Scout Den 6, which met at the Sandy Hook Volunteer Firehouse. Earlier in December, Ben performed at his piano recital, and sitting still long enough to play one piece was an accomplishment he reveled in. He loved The Beatles, lighthouses, and the number 7 train to Sunnyside, Queens.
Benjamin Andrew "Ben" Wheeler, a vibrant soul whose time on Earth was far too short, was born in Manhattan, New York County, New York, on the 12th of September, 2006. Tragically, he passed away on the 14th of December 2012, at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Fairfield County, Connecticut.
Benjamin was more than just a six-year-old boy. He was a bundle of energy, a beacon of light, and a source of contagious joy. His gleeful approach to life brought delight and laughter into every space he entered, filling hearts with an inexpressible sense of warmth and mirth.
Those close to Benjamin fondly recall his insatiable enthusiasm for life. His energy was such that he often outpaced his peers, invariably engaged in some sort of action or activity. On the soccer field, his exuberant runs, frequently beyond what was necessary, were always accompanied by his infectious smile and laughter. His eager participation in the Tiger Scout Den 6 meetings at the Sandy Hook Volunteer Firehouse was a testament to his lively spirit.
The world was Benjamin's playground, full of wonders waiting to be discovered. He loved attending school, cherishing each opportunity to meet his teacher and fellow first-grade friends. Always ready to learn, Benjamin was equally enthusiastic about his swimming lessons, relishing the challenge of mastering new skills.
His love for The Beatles, lighthouses, and the number 7 train to Sunnyside, Queens, were endearing facets of his personality. His passion for lighthouses in particular left a significant mark on his family. It became an integral part of family vacations, birthday cakes, and even the decor of his shared room with his older brother, Nathaniel. In memory of his fascination with these towering beacons of light, his family established Ben's Lighthouse, a nonprofit dedicated to fostering compassion and understanding among children.
In his six short years, Benjamin touched countless lives. His boundless vitality, his ceaseless curiosity, his unyielding love for his older brother Nathaniel—each of these qualities defined Benjamin's character. He was an unstoppable force, a whirlwind of joyful energy that left a profound impact on everyone he met.
His father, David Wheeler, fondly referred to Benjamin as a "life force," a poignant description that encapsulates the essence of this remarkable child. One memorable instance of Benjamin's spirited nature is his piano recital, where his ability to sit still long enough to play a single piece was a triumphant achievement, and a moment of rare tranquility in his action-filled existence.
Benjamin's strong bond with his older brother Nathaniel was nothing short of extraordinary. Their shared bedroom was not merely a common living space but a haven for brotherly love and camaraderie. Despite their distinct personalities—with Benjamin's hyperactive disposition contrasting Nathaniel's love for reading—the brothers shared an inseparable bond. Benjamin's zest for life often pulled Nathaniel into outdoor adventures, helping him gradually step out of his shell.
The morning of December 14 was a poignant moment etched in time for Benjamin's mother, Francine Wheeler. As she reminisced about their quiet time at Starbucks, a rare moment of calm in Benjamin's otherwise high-energy life, she couldn't help but share his aspirations of becoming an architect and a paleontologist, keen to follow his older brother's footsteps.
Sadly, that day marked the end of Benjamin's journey, a life brimming with potential cut short by the tragic events at Sandy Hook Elementary School. Yet, his spirit lives on through the countless lives he touched and continues to inspire through the nonprofit set up in his memory.
Ben's Lighthouse, born out of Benjamin's love for lighthouses, stands tall as a beacon of hope and compassion. The programs and activities, such as the summer camp and the puppet show, are aimed at helping young people develop social connections and empathy—values that Benjamin exhibited throughout his life.
Remembering Benjamin today, we celebrate his love for lighthouses, his infectious laughter, his passion for soccer, and his undying love for his brother. We remember his quirky nicknames, a testament to his zest for life, and his precocious musical talent that saw him hum precise notes at a young age.
Despite his tragically short life, Benjamin left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His zest for life, infectious energy, and an undying spirit have not dimmed with his physical absence. Rather, they continue to inspire and drive people to make the world a better place, much like the lighthouses he adored.
Through the establishment of Ben's Lighthouse, his family has ensured that Benjamin's spirit continues to shine, guiding others through their darkest hours and illuminating the path towards a compassionate world. Benjamin Andrew Wheeler was not just a boy; he was, and will always remain, a beacon of hope and change. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us, much like a lighthouse guiding ships through stormy seas, towards the shores of empathy, understanding, and kindness.
Written by: Alan Owen
~~
From his parents:
Benjamin was an irrepressibly bright and spirited boy whose love of fun and excitement at the wonders of life and the world could rarely be contained. His rush to experience life was headlong, creative, and immediate. He was a devoted fan of his older brother, and the two of them together filled the house with the noise of four children. He loved the local soccer program, often running across the field long after it was actually necessary, but always smiling and laughing as he moved the ball, nearly always at full tilt. He was becoming a strong swimmer and loved his lessons. Eager to learn, he could not wait to get to school to see his teacher and his growing group of new first grade friends. Ben was also a member of Tiger Scout Den 6, which met at the Sandy Hook Volunteer Firehouse. Earlier in December, Ben performed at his piano recital, and sitting still long enough to play one piece was an accomplishment he reveled in. He loved The Beatles, lighthouses, and the number 7 train to Sunnyside, Queens.
Benjamin was more than just a six-year-old boy. He was a bundle of energy, a beacon of light, and a source of contagious joy. His gleeful approach to life brought delight and laughter into every space he entered, filling hearts with an inexpressible sense of warmth and mirth.
Those close to Benjamin fondly recall his insatiable enthusiasm for life. His energy was such that he often outpaced his peers, invariably engaged in some sort of action or activity. On the soccer field, his exuberant runs, frequently beyond what was necessary, were always accompanied by his infectious smile and laughter. His eager participation in the Tiger Scout Den 6 meetings at the Sandy Hook Volunteer Firehouse was a testament to his lively spirit.
The world was Benjamin's playground, full of wonders waiting to be discovered. He loved attending school, cherishing each opportunity to meet his teacher and fellow first-grade friends. Always ready to learn, Benjamin was equally enthusiastic about his swimming lessons, relishing the challenge of mastering new skills.
His love for The Beatles, lighthouses, and the number 7 train to Sunnyside, Queens, were endearing facets of his personality. His passion for lighthouses in particular left a significant mark on his family. It became an integral part of family vacations, birthday cakes, and even the decor of his shared room with his older brother, Nathaniel. In memory of his fascination with these towering beacons of light, his family established Ben's Lighthouse, a nonprofit dedicated to fostering compassion and understanding among children.
In his six short years, Benjamin touched countless lives. His boundless vitality, his ceaseless curiosity, his unyielding love for his older brother Nathaniel—each of these qualities defined Benjamin's character. He was an unstoppable force, a whirlwind of joyful energy that left a profound impact on everyone he met.
His father, David Wheeler, fondly referred to Benjamin as a "life force," a poignant description that encapsulates the essence of this remarkable child. One memorable instance of Benjamin's spirited nature is his piano recital, where his ability to sit still long enough to play a single piece was a triumphant achievement, and a moment of rare tranquility in his action-filled existence.
Benjamin's strong bond with his older brother Nathaniel was nothing short of extraordinary. Their shared bedroom was not merely a common living space but a haven for brotherly love and camaraderie. Despite their distinct personalities—with Benjamin's hyperactive disposition contrasting Nathaniel's love for reading—the brothers shared an inseparable bond. Benjamin's zest for life often pulled Nathaniel into outdoor adventures, helping him gradually step out of his shell.
The morning of December 14 was a poignant moment etched in time for Benjamin's mother, Francine Wheeler. As she reminisced about their quiet time at Starbucks, a rare moment of calm in Benjamin's otherwise high-energy life, she couldn't help but share his aspirations of becoming an architect and a paleontologist, keen to follow his older brother's footsteps.
Sadly, that day marked the end of Benjamin's journey, a life brimming with potential cut short by the tragic events at Sandy Hook Elementary School. Yet, his spirit lives on through the countless lives he touched and continues to inspire through the nonprofit set up in his memory.
Ben's Lighthouse, born out of Benjamin's love for lighthouses, stands tall as a beacon of hope and compassion. The programs and activities, such as the summer camp and the puppet show, are aimed at helping young people develop social connections and empathy—values that Benjamin exhibited throughout his life.
Remembering Benjamin today, we celebrate his love for lighthouses, his infectious laughter, his passion for soccer, and his undying love for his brother. We remember his quirky nicknames, a testament to his zest for life, and his precocious musical talent that saw him hum precise notes at a young age.
Despite his tragically short life, Benjamin left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His zest for life, infectious energy, and an undying spirit have not dimmed with his physical absence. Rather, they continue to inspire and drive people to make the world a better place, much like the lighthouses he adored.
Through the establishment of Ben's Lighthouse, his family has ensured that Benjamin's spirit continues to shine, guiding others through their darkest hours and illuminating the path towards a compassionate world. Benjamin Andrew Wheeler was not just a boy; he was, and will always remain, a beacon of hope and change. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us, much like a lighthouse guiding ships through stormy seas, towards the shores of empathy, understanding, and kindness.
Written by: Alan Owen
~~
From his parents:
Benjamin was an irrepressibly bright and spirited boy whose love of fun and excitement at the wonders of life and the world could rarely be contained. His rush to experience life was headlong, creative, and immediate. He was a devoted fan of his older brother, and the two of them together filled the house with the noise of four children. He loved the local soccer program, often running across the field long after it was actually necessary, but always smiling and laughing as he moved the ball, nearly always at full tilt. He was becoming a strong swimmer and loved his lessons. Eager to learn, he could not wait to get to school to see his teacher and his growing group of new first grade friends. Ben was also a member of Tiger Scout Den 6, which met at the Sandy Hook Volunteer Firehouse. Earlier in December, Ben performed at his piano recital, and sitting still long enough to play one piece was an accomplishment he reveled in. He loved The Beatles, lighthouses, and the number 7 train to Sunnyside, Queens.
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Take him and cut him out into little stars
And he will make the face of heaven so fine
That all the world will be in love with night.
