Benjamin Amos Gottlieb
(March 21, 1982 - April 27, 2020)
Our beautiful Ben began his journey to his place of forever peace on Monday, April 27th, 2020. He
slipped away comfortably with his best friend, his big brother Dan, at his side holding his hand. We are
sad beyond belief that we had to let him go, but are comforted to know he is in heaven with his beloved
Papa. Ben was our miracle and even miracles are finding it hard to fight the horrible virus that has
consumed our lives. He fought hard and has always fought hard through each illness or surgery he
endured throughout his life. But this time even Ben could not win the battle. Ben will never be just a
statistic in this war, he will always be a warrior who was valiant in his fight, but didn’t have the weapon
needed to win. During his time here with us, Ben was joy and love to so many and a teacher to many
more. He taught us about the goodness in life and to not judge others because they look different on the
outside. He did not think he was a victim and never let his circumstances limit his happiness. Ben did not
sweat the small stuff ever, he lived every minute of every day and for him life was never hectic.
To Ben, his family was his ultimate joy. Yes, he loved his music, his stereo, wiggling his pencil and looking
forward to the next yummy meal, but being with his family made him the happiest. Ben adored his brother
and his sisters, and he cherished his father and step-father. He thought the world of his Gramma and
Papa. But it was his Mom that Ben truly loved. He knew she was the reason he had achieved more than
doctors had predicted at his birth. She always believed in him and they had a special connection. She
nursed him back to health after his many hospitalizations and she was always by his side. Ben’s Mom
protected him when she could and fought for him when she should. She made sure he dressed stylishly,
had haircuts and was polite. She gave Ben awesome birthday parties and wanted him to enjoy life. The
real gift his Mom gave him was acceptance for who he was. Ben had the ability to find delight in life and
enjoyed giving and receiving love. He brought such happiness to all of us with his beautiful smile. Ben
taught us to see the world differently and that everyone, no matter their disabilities, has a purpose. Ben’s
purpose was to show us acceptance is love. He taught us we all have needs, it’s just that some of us
have special needs. Ben taught us to live, love and embrace the life you were given.
Ben leaves a large loving family. His mother, Darlene Gottlieb and step-father David McCollum along with
his father, Richard Gottlieb and step-mother Jackie Gottlieb who all feel his loss deeply. Ben will be
missed beyond words by his brother, Dan Gottlieb (Lisa McDermott), his sisters Nicole Gottlieb (Julio
Cuevos), Amy McCollum, (Angel Concepcion), Katelyn McCollum, Amanda Gottlieb and his step-sisters
Pamela Busey and Kimberly Beaudette. He leaves his maternal grandmother, Elizabeth “Betty” Morin,
who says she will always remember Ben’s smile. He leaves many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and
cousins who find it hard to believe Ben is no longer here.
There is something we can all do in memory of Ben. It is very easy. Each time you see someone with
special needs please smile at them. It matters, it makes a difference. It’s a small gift, a beautiful moment
in time and a link in the chain of acceptance that will change the world. It’s a lesson Ben wanted us to
learn.
There will be a celebration of life for Ben at a later date. In lieu of flowers please send donations to:
The First Congregational Church, 199 Valley Street, Willimantic, CT 06226
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