Ben Harrison Bader

Ben Harrison Bader
September 22, 2000 – October 23, 2025
From the moment he entered this world-tiny and determined at just two pounds-Ben
Harrison Bader showed the strength, courage, and grace that would come to define him. Born
a fighter, he grew into a young man whose light seemed to shine from within: a beautiful
smile, long eyelashes, and unruly hair framing a spirit that was unstoppable, creative, and full
of life.
Ben had a way of making the world feel warmer. He filled rooms with laughter, mischief, and
kindness in equal measure. He was generous, athletic, and competitive, with a love for
basketball, long walks, running, and the games of tennis and padel. Whether he was playing,
talking, or simply listening, Ben lived with his whole heart-curious, determined, and entirely
himself.
He had an extraordinary gift for connection. Ben remembered names, noticed the overlooked,
and had an instinct for seeing people as they truly were. He believed in others before they
believed in themselves. His encouragement gave people courage; his faith in them became
their own. To be known by Ben was to feel understood, valued, and loved.
Creative and introspective, Ben lived by a simple yet powerful motto: "If not now,
when?"-words he carried with him, even tattooed on his arm, as a daily reminder to embrace
life with courage and presence. He dreamed boldly and inspired others to do the same. His
kindness, sincerity, and humor lifted those around him, and his unwavering belief in the
potential of others continues to ripple outward-a quiet, enduring legacy of love.
Those who knew Ben will forever carry his laughter, his generosity, and the spark of his spirit
in their hearts. Though his time on earth was far too short, the depth of his impact was
immeasurable. He reminded us all to live fully, to love deeply, and to see the light in one
another.
Ben is survived by his loving mother, Wendy Upham, and his father, Jon Bader; his
stepmother, Karen Bader, and stepfather, Todd Upham; his brother, Justin Bader (Makenna
Hack); his stepbrothers, Brad Upham and the late Zachary Aronoff; his stepsisters, Ellen
Upham (Moises Gomez), Maddie Upham (Sam Young), Allison Upham, and Toria (Brian)
Aronoff Schottenstein.
He is further survived by his grandparents, Mari Garfield and the late James Garfield, M.D.,
Rochelle and Gerald Bader, D.D.S.; his aunts and uncles, Monica and Bill Woeste, Susan and
Jeff Schoeny, Lisa and Jeff Samuelson, David and Michelle Bader, and B. Tupper Upham;
and by his beloved cousins, Maggie and Molly Schoeny, Trey and Mac Woeste, Jenna and
Benji Frydman, Zach Samuelson, Alexa and Kyle Bader; nieces Juliette and Scarlette
Schottenstein; and his loving girlfriend, Reem Atallah-along with many other family members
and dear friends who will cherish his memory.
Ben's life was a reminder that joy and kindness are powerful acts of faith-that one person's
belief in others can echo across countless lives. His light will continue to shine through all who
loved him.
A memorial service to celebrate Ben's life will be held at Kenwood Country Club in Cincinnati,
Ohio, on Sunday, November 2, at 11:00 a.m., with a reception immediately following.
Ben reached the community through his writing and daily posts on social media, where he
shared reflections that encouraged others to live with gratitude, clarity, and self-belief. His
tweets were deeply meaningful and often gave his followers comfort, perspective, and a
renewed sense of purpose. Two of his most powerful messages read:
"Life is beautiful. Do not miss it. Do not take it for granted. Do not tell yourself
something is missing, as you will always find something to look for. The thing you are
looking for is you."
"You find gratitude for the pain when you know there's light on the other side. You're
one of the lucky ones who gets to experience the depth of polarity. Withstand the
storm and you'll be prepared for the sun."
These messages capture the essence of who Ben was - someone who led with light, sought
truth, and reminded others to find peace and purpose within themselves.
Though our hearts are broken, we will carry on Ben's legacy in everything we do. We will keep
his memory alive by leading with love, living with purpose, and carrying forward his passions
that made the world brighter.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to:
Jupiter Medical Center Foundation
1210 S Old Dixie Highway
Jupiter, FL 33458
Please direct all memorial contributions to the address above.
May we honor him by living as he did-with courage, presence, and love, asking always: "If
not now, when?"
Keep his memory alive. Follow his social media: