Benjamin Krogh-Graffe

AMHERST - Benjamin Krogh-Grabbe, the son of Betsy Krogh and Nick Grabbe, died Jan. 13 at Brigham & Women's Hospital in Boston of complications of pneumonia.

Ben was born July 14, 1982 in Greenfield and was diagnosed with Down Syndrome. He grew up in Amherst, attended Amherst schools, and as an adult lived in several group homes in the Amherst area. Ben was surrounded by the loving support of many caring family members, friends, and professionals, who enabled him to live a rich, full life. He embraced life with enthusiasm.

Ben was a longtime member of First Congregational Church in Amherst. With help from Betsy, he sent birthday cards featuring his artwork to church members. With help from Nick, he set up the tables and chairs at Not Bread Alone, the free-meal site at the church, almost every Saturday for 25 years. Ben was a familiar presence at the Jones Library, Antonio's restaurant, and at Riverside Industries in Easthampton, where he spent his weekdays. He loved to go on hikes with Nick in Amherst's conservation areas.

Ben was an enthusiastic member of the Rainbow Players, an acting and arts group for adults with disabilities led by Ezzell Floraniña. He enjoyed going to Camp Horizons in Connecticut in recent summers. He loved doing activities over the years with former one-to-one aide Josh Arond.

Ben was known for his artwork and his love of birthdays and holidays, which he enjoyed celebrating with friends and family. He enjoyed listening to music on his radio and participating in singalongs. He loved his lifelong favorite television shows, Fraggle Rock and Sesame Street. He thrived on routines and always wanted to know what was coming next.

In addition to his parents, Ben is survived by his brother Alex Ellis and sister-in-law Molly Ellis of Providence, R.I., four aunts, three uncles, six cousins, a niece, and a nephew.

A celebration of Ben's life will take place at First Congregational Church, 165 Main St., Amherst, on Feb. 21 at 2 p.m.

Ben inspired much love among his family and friends, who will always remember the light that he brought into their lives.

Donations in Ben's memory can be made to Empowerment Through The Arts, Riverside Industries, or First Congregational Church in Amherst.

Meemorial guestbook can be found at www.douglassfuneral.com