Benjamin Michael Gaylord

Formerly of Chicago

Benjamin Michael Gaylord was a miracle baby - his parents Gregg Gaylord and Linda Covillon being told it was "impossible" for them to have children. Of course, Ben found a way to get into this world, and headfirst he dove right in. From an early age he began swimming, a love of water he shared with his father. He was certified in scuba at 11yo and went diving with Giant Pacific Mantas and whales during a week with his father in Hawaii as well as the Florida Keys. Ben's first passion at an early age was skateboarding. His mother would regularly drive Ben and his younger brother Asher to many skate spots in Wisconsin, as well as regular trips to Louisville, KY. He would make many friends along the way. Ben and Asher spent thousands of hours skating from an early age making it to many places all over the world including Wisconsin, Utah, Denver, California, New York, Spain, and Japan. He also spent nearly a month in Thailand, including spending a lot of time at an elephant reserve learning how to interact with these large, intelligent, gentle creatures. He always loved animals of all sorts. His trip to Japan was a highlight of his life getting to visit his large Japanese family and spending many nights exploring the major cities and touring cherished parks and shrines. Ben and Asher's bond from skating was deep and strong. Ben attended the University of Colorado where he auditioned for and was accepted into the Music Production school. Ben remained in Denver several years and performed his original electronic music at several venues. He then moved to Chicago, IL where he reunited with Asher. He continued to produce music and skate.

Ben's older brother Tristan lived in Bristol, UK and they had a close bond despite the thousands of miles, and an ocean between them. They were able to make trips together and spend many months together in the States and England. The three boys had a strong bond and cared for and loved each other deeply. Asher and Tristan are grieving over Ben's passing, as are so many. The bond, though, will never be broken.

Ben's most fortunate experience was meeting the love of his life, Shadia Martin. The two had a passionate relationship, and Ben was growing and maturing as a man because of their love. Watching them grow as a couple could, at times, be a handful. But they stuck together through thick and thin. They moved to Brooklyn, NY where they lived together. Unfortunately, Ben's life was cut short. The pain and grief are a sign of the deep love of those that were close to him. The shock of his passing was felt far and wide. And Shadia, I hope you know you will always be a welcome part of Ben's family. Thank you for letting Ben into your life.

Ben will be missed in a way that only those that lose someone so young can suffer. But the many joys of his memories and love will also survive. Ben is being laid to rest in Chicago. The city he loves the most. One day his father will be laid down beside him. Until then, there will be much grief, and much wonderful reminiscing, but mostly, Ben - "Benny the Guy" - will be missed. And forever in our broken hearts.