Ernie,Nancy and Garrett,we have just heard today of Ben's passing. Our hearts are absolutely broken for you all.

He sounds like a kind,loving talented young man.Hugs are being sent, with difficulty finding words. <3

Hi Ben. Thank you for every moment spent with us, our family, my sons. Whether your kindliness, humility, humour, awesome guitar shredding, your presence in our lives has had a profound impact.

If your mission in this world was to spread the love and rock on, you achieved it.

It is very sad for us that we can't be physically together, but perhaps there's a chance we can connect from where you are now. So send a shout out from time to time, to your beautiful folks and family, to us, your extended family. And be in peace while you rock on.

We love you Ben.

One of the great things about growing up in the music scene in Halifax when we did was/is growing with those around you. I don't remember my first conversation with Ben or my first time meeting him, but it was probably nearly half my life ago now. As we all do in life with everyone, I took for granted the time I spent with Ben. His impact is profound, an impact that stretches so far and wide for a community like the one we are a part of in the Halifax music scene. These scenes are full of small histories that for those outside of them, they are trivial, but for those inside of them they are profound. Ben's impact in the scene has been massive and is firmly cemented in the fabric of this city. His contribution to music in Halifax is one that is truly profound. A one of a kind human who has impacted more people than he ever could have possibly known, but everyone who has been around Ben, worked with Ben, or been lucky enough to share in this community with all of us know just how much he has impacted the landscape of the music in this city.

I will miss my passing moments with Ben. The last time I saw Ben was on Halloween 2021 and although I never imagined it would be the last time I saw him, I'm glad it is the last memory I have of him. I introduced him to someone he had never met before and he treated them like he had known them his whole life. He talked to this person he had known for 3 minutes with the same level of care and interest as he did talking to me, a person he had known since he was in high-school. A small gesture indeed, but true testament to the kind of person he was. It was a pleasure to be able to share this moment in time with him. His memory will live on and he will never be forgotten. I pray that he has found peace, and I hope all of his family and close friends are able to find peace as well. He is and will continue to be deeply missed by so many people.

So many memories. So many good times. Our hearts our broken. Our deepest thoughts are with you Nan, Earn and Gar. Love from us. Love you Ben. You will be forever missed and in our hearts.

I have nothing to say except, I’m SO SO SORRY For Your TROUBLE !

Ben and Garret were such sweet little boys.

My heart breaks for all that knew Ben.We are so sorry to hear this news .Hugs to Nancy,Ernie and Garrett.

Nancy, Ernie and Garret, Ben’s biography, photos and tributes are beautiful and very moving. Although we did not have the privilege of knowing Ben, we were deeply saddened by the news of your loss. You, your family and all who cherished Ben have our heartfelt condolences.

I was lucky enough to have the privilege of looking up to Ben as a fellow musician who has played quite a few shows alongside the many bands Ben has been in. I always looked up to him from the moment I entered the Halifax music scene and started playing in a band as many of us do. The energy he put out off and on stage is truly indescribable, and he will be missed because of it. Ben was always one of those people in the music scene that was very approachable, caring and willing to have a laugh and talk about music gear. I know my own bass playing was heavily effected by watching Ben play and having talked with him at shows and around at Radstorm. I will never take for granted the frequencies, energy, kindness and knowledge he put out into the world. ❤️

Nancy, my heart is breaking for you and your family at the loss of your Ben. It must seem impossible that life can go on without him in it physically. But you are so strong and if you close your eyes, he will be right in front of you. His spirit resides in so many people and places he has visited and loved, and you can find him there too. Much love to you, Ernie, and Garret as you adjust to this new world. xoxo

Nancy and Ernie - I am so sorry. My prayers are with you and Ben.

We are so very sorry to hear of Ben’s passing. What a delight to look through the photo collage and his smile and love for you all really shines through. Sending heartfelt hugs during this difficult time.

Nancy and Ernie, we are saddened to hear of Ben's passing. We can only imagine the extent of grief that you and your family are experiencing at this most difficult time. Our heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Hugs.

Nancy ~ I was so sorry to hear about Ben. I cannot even begin to express my sadness for you and the family. My thoughts are with you at this most difficult time.

I had the pleasure of knowing Ben for a few years and I can honestly say he was one of the most kind and talented people I have met. Ben was always there to listen, to support or to just have a laugh. His smile and laugh filled my soul more times than I can count. It breaks my heart that I never told him that.

To his family, I'm so sorry for you loss. You did an incredible job raising such a kind and special person.

I love you Ben. You and garret are like brothers to me. Still remember the day you and my older brother Alastair some how convinced me John and Garret to lay face down in a red ants nest for “fear factor”. Good times… but seriously , jamming out in the wood shed with you and garret might have been the peak of my character development. I talk so proudly of my child hood growing up doing fun shit with you guys. It’s hard to believe that you’re gone. You were such a genuine person, I always loved chatting with you. I always appreciated your wisdom and point of view on things. I wish I could see you one last time and talk about the good old days at Nora’s or that classic fear factor challenge … I’m sad that you’re gone but I hope that you are at peace now. I love you Ben and appreciate everything you were while you were here with us. A great brother , friend and musician. You will be truly missed

I remember Ben as a child playing with our sons when we visited - enthusiastic and full of beans. I knew him as he grew up through Nancy’s stories and the family updates we moms share with each other. I walked to his land and ate at his table and knew a little of him; I knew he was a talented, kind and caring person - I am so sorry I missed the chance to know him more. He was loved and is loved so much. All my love to you Nancy, Ernie and Garret and friends and family who held him so close.

It is often hard to find the right words at a time like this. My sincerest condolences to the family. Ben, you've always shown me kindness. I never got the chance to thank you.

Nan, Ernie, Garret and all the family -Oh how my heart aches for each one of you. I was so proud to see Ben perform at Reg's 80th birthday party in Kennetcook. Music has always been a huge part of the Sanford family, from his great grandad singing in the choir, and on the lawn with his brothers, Lawrence and my dad, Cliff. The 3 part harmony was spot on. Thus it was especially wonderful to see Ben, the younger generation, still involved in this wonderful art. Ben, you will not be forgotten and I can only imagine the wonderful music you are making with those who have gone before you. Hold the memories close and smile when you remember Ben. My hugs are waiting still I can see you.

Barb & Larry

Oh my sweet, sweet Brennans. I am devastated about the loss of our beautiful Ben. I would not be the artist I am today if it wasn't for Ben's encouragement, support and ability to teach without pretension. He was one of the sweetest, softest people I've ever known. I am so grateful to have been someone who was close to him, he supported me so much and loved me so deeply. I will always see him laughing and smiling in my mind. I am so sorry for the loss of this amazing person, the world will not be the same without him. I can't believe he's gone. He touched so many peoples lives and inspired so many people with his art and music. His was such an incredibly insightful, talented and intelligent bean. I will cherish the memories I have of him forever. I am grieving with you. I wish you ease in this time of great suffering and I am looking forward to his memorial with all of his friends and family.

So much love to you all. xxoxoxo

We are so sorry to hear about Ben. Sending our love to you, Ernie, Garrett and the entire family! Love you <3

I met a young Ben in Ketch around 2006 but got to know the man last summer while he worked on our construction site in Halifax. It was hard work but Ben took on the challenge with lots of gusto and never complained. He said yes to the tasks and did what had to be done. His dad taught him well.

We spent our lunchtime discussing books, writing, music and guitars. I grew fond of Ben as he was really easy to talk to, intelligent, and curious, plus it was fun to get him to laugh. All of us carpenters enjoyed having him with us.

I hope you've found peace, Ben. I'll never forget you.

We loved meeting Ben at Amy’s wedding this past summer! We are sending big hugs and lots of love to You, Ernie and Garret! May you find peace in your memories! Love you ❤️❤️🙏

So sad to hear about this terrible loss. I have memories from family events and the cottage. You will be missed and I want to send all of my love to the ones who love you most

Forever in our thoughts <3

Growing up in Ketch Harbour, babysitting Ben and Garret was a highlight of my time living there. They were both so funny and kind. I remember Ben was just starting to get into music at that time. I was very excited to find out he really ran with it as he grew older, was a pillar of his music community, and even trained as an audio engineer. I ran into him a few times when we were adults and was happy to see that he was the same kind, humble, talented, and funny guy I remembered. I will miss Ben a lot. Much love to Nancy, Ernie, Garret, and his extended family and friends.

Ben was such an energetic and talented soul with an infectious laugh. We are so very sorry for your loss. Thinking of all of you today and in the days ahead.

Ben, you were such an artistic soul. I will never forget running around as kids outside with all our cousins. Growing up together over the years. The laughter and freedom. But most importantly I will never forget the relationship you built with my son, Jace. He holds your memories close to his heart and the quality time you shared. Jace said he remembers you happy, smiling. I will to. ❤️

Condolences to Nancy Ernie and Garret And all of our family. Love you all so much.

Nancy,

So sorry to hear about your son Ben. I know that your boys were the light of your life and there are no words that can ease your heartache. Just know that I am thinking of you and your family during this difficult time. Ben will always be with you. My heartfelt condolences to you all.

I first became friends with Ben in high school, and even though we were the same age I always looked up to him. He was playing in bands at a young age which is all I wanted to do, but never seemed to be able to make happen, and first day of Jazz band in grade 10 he had to show me how to play basic chords because he knew way more than me.

A funny moment I think about often is once when we were playing the school musical together, Ben unplugged my cable from my amp without me noticing. When I next went to play and made no sound I turned to him and he said “I plugged you into the Ben amp”, and he proceeded to try to mimic what I was playing with his mouth. He always made me laugh, and this memory brings me joy to this day. He will be sorely missed.

You will forever be missed my sweet cousin. We haven’t seen each other in many years, but I will always hold the memories of us as kids running around with all the cousins close to my heart. Rest easy cousin.

We are here for you all, and our hearts are sending warm giant hugs and love. I smiled looking at these photos- one time recently while you were out, the chickens escaped and Ben helped me round them up. It was a really laughter- filled time, and I giggled about it for weeks after. He would walk toward the chickens and they would freak out, running in different directions, which made him panic a bit. I enjoyed watching the game of Ben vs the chickens, especially when they were winning. We are here for you.

My Dear Cousin Nancy and family, I know that no words can help right now, because there are no words that will ease the pain.I hope that you may find some comfort knowing that you do not face this time alone.All our thoughts are with you. Our arms wrap around you and our hearts break with yours. I am sure that your Ben, now sings with all our loved ones who have left us before we were ready.My thoughts and prayers are with you

Ernie and family , there are really no words , just to say , your son , from what I read , had an impact on those who knew and loved him .

To my dear cousin Nancy, to Ernie and Garret and to our family. Words cannot express the heart ache, but know we are thinking of you all. I will always remember the willing , but seemingly shy young man who took to the stage in a strange community for dads 80th and picked up a guitar to play. He will forever be in my memories of that special day. Hugs to you all.

Ben’s intelligence, creativity and kindness are what stand out. You are in my heart and thoughts. Sending love to Ben, Earnie, Nancy and Garrett.

Dear Nancy

I am so sorry to hear this sad news of your Precious son , Ben......He certainly had a lot to contribute to this world,and accomplished so much in his short life.He will live on in your heart forever...My deepest condolences to you & your family at this difficult time.....I feel your pain🌹💕

Growing up i played video games with Ben a few times, i remember he liked diablo (maybe even loved?) and we had a good time playing grand theft auto vice city too. I was probably too young but it was a game i played with my brother plenty before then anyways…

I wish i had seen him more recently, i feel like we would have had great conversations and become close. I am so sorry that we wont have a chance to reconnect. Sending all my love

My favourite times with Ben were always with family. Laughing, smiling and carrying on in our cousin ways. Always and forever will he be in my heart and never forgotten. ❤️

Our dearest Son, Ben. The biography above and the small number of pics of slices of your life do not do your full story justice. You were a huge presence in this world and we love you forever.