Obituary of Benjamin Alexander Grose

In Loving Memory of Benjamin Alexander Grose

October 25, 1982 - October 26, 2020

Afterglow

I’d like the memory of me to be a happy one.
I’d like to leave an afterglow of smiles when life is done.
I’d like to leave an echo whispering softly down the ways,
Of happy times and laughing times and bright and sunny days.
I’d like the tears of those who grieve, to dry before the sun;
Of happy memories that I leave when life is done.

Author: Helen Lowrie Marshall

Ben will be lovingly remembered for his courage during difficult times. After living with mental illness for more than twenty years, Ben died by suicide on Monday, October 26, 2020. He was born in Brantford, Ontario where he spent his childhood, attending Riverview, Bellview and Joseph Brant Public Schools, and Pauline Johnson CVS. Ben loved learning and excelled at school, enjoyed music and dance lessons, played T-Ball, and joined the Navy Cadets. Together with his sister, Sylvie he found great joy in performing theatrical skits, always under her direction though.  Ben was very fond of swimming, cycling and going on adventures with his friends. Later he made his home in Toronto until he died at the age of 38. Ben was an artist who worked in various mediums, and found interest and beauty in the world around him. He loved playing his guitar and exploring trails through parks and along beaches, while collecting bits of nature that he crafted into art. From time to time, we saw the wonderful silly side of Ben, and at other times his determined stubborn nature. His many relatives and friends will always remember Ben as a kind, loving and gentle soul who left us much too soon. Ben will be sadly missed by his mother, Leah (Wayne), brother, Chris (Heather), sisters, Sylvie (Mike), Joanna and Naomi, and his very large extended family. Ben is in heaven now with his Daddo Bobby.

We all struggle in life, but not like Ben did. He loved us and joined us when he was up for it. Family meant a lot to him. His struggles were overwhelming at times. To remain with us as long as Ben did was heroic.

Rest in Peace Benny

A cremation has already taken place and a private family Celebration of Life will be held by invitation only, due to COVID restrictions.

Memorial donations may be made to CAMH or a charity of your choice. Condolences may be forwarded to Ben’s family through www.humphreymiles.com.