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Benjamin Freed Obituary
Ben Freed, of Armonk, New York, died suddenly Wednesday. He was predeceased by his parents, Lt. Milton Freed OD, U.S. Air Force, Ruth Freed nee Bernstein, his sister Robin Freed, and his uncle photographer Leonard Freed.
He will be greatly missed by loving daughters Madelyn and Liza and wife Nomi Schwartz, and his extended family: the Rapaports, the Skriloffs, his beloved pets Tiny and Lucy, and scores of friends.
He was a world-class banjo player whose records of all original music include Speed of Sound (2000), Suite for Bluegrass Banjo (2003), and Banjopolis (2007). His best-known musical achievement was the solo banjo heard in the Coen Brothers film "Raising Arizona." Throughout his life he found tremendous joy in performing, giving lessons, and mentoring banjoists.
By day, Ben was a doctor of optometry, administering care to patients with unparalleled empathy and expertise. He headed the Homebound program at the SUNY College of Optometry, where he schlepped around New York City visiting patients. He was assistant clinical professor of optometry and ophthalmology at New York Medical College and SUNY College of Optometry. He served as director of the Low Vision service at New York Eye and Ear Infirmary and had affiliations with Long Island Medical Center Department of Ophthalmology, Lighthouse International, Bronx-Lebanon Hospital, Queens Hospital Center, and St. Lukes-Roosevelt Dept. of Ophthalmology. He trained a new generation of doctors to be devoted to their patients.
In addition to his mastery of the banjo, dobro, and optometry, he was an eager small-boat sailor, enthusiastic but rarely successful fisherman, great chooser of rescue dogs, fern aficionado, puppet designer, recumbent bicyclist, loving husband, and proud father.
Ben Freed was a friend to all, an inspirational cheerleader for musicians everywhere, especially bluegrass musicians, and in particular banjo players. Ben was a loyal and generous friend.
The family is receiving shiva calls at their home at 45 Evergreen Row, Armonk NY 10504:
Saturday May 23, 6:30-8:30pm
Sunday May 24, 2-6pm
Monday May 25, 2-6pm
Tuesday May 26, 6-8:30
In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Michael J. Fox Foundation https://www.michaeljfox.org/donate.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Benjamin Freed
Sponsored by Liza, Madelyn, and Nomi Freed.
Paul Hoffman
March 14, 2025
I 'discovered' Ben when I started playing banjo 2 years ago, age 71. His arrangements are the mainstay of my banjo life. I was particularly saddened that he died of a cardiac incident, given that I had life saving heart surgery 4 months after his death. I am also a health care professional, so he's definitely someone I wished I'd known. It's clear he was a mensch of the highest order.
Lisa Skriloff
May 17, 2024
never forgotten. he lives on in our love and being with Nomi and our "nieces/goddaughters" Liza and Madelyn
Nomi
May 16, 2024
We still miss him so...
In addition to his mastery of the banjo, dobro, and optometry, he was an eager small-boat sailor, enthusiastic but rarely successful fisherman, great chooser of rescue dogs, fern aficionado, puppet designer, recumbent bicyclist, loving husband, and proud father.
Becca Pulliam
May 16, 2024
One small thing always associated with Ben and Thanksgiving dinners. As soon as the meat was pulled off the turkey, Ben would cover the carcass with water and boil away, making a big pot of soup. Ben had energy and made the gatherings fun. I miss those days. Love to all, Becca Pulliam
Becca Pulliam
May 16, 2023
I have been thinking about Ben and all the family, friends, eye patients, music, Thanksgivings... a long walk we once took from UWs to Chinatown after a heavy snow... Love,
Bertram Lewis
September 24, 2020
Sincerest condolences to the family. My mother used to work for Benjamin's father and new Benjamin fairly well. She had a tremendous amount of respect for Dr. Milton Freed and his family and last spoke to Benjamin in 2001.
Becca Pulliam
May 16, 2019
Ben you are missed by family and friends, always. Love, Becca
June 5, 2018
November 7, 2017
I am sorry to learn just now of the passing away of
Dr. Benjamin Freed. He was a good mentor at The Lighthouse. To the best retinoscopist, may you enjoy heaven. My condolences.
Melissa B. Anglo,OD Philippines 2017
Diana Cruz
April 23, 2017
My condolences go out to the family, I knew Dr. Freed through my work with a vision rehabilitation agency in the city. He was a true gem of a doctor caring about his patients and always advocating for their needs and services. He will be missed.
October 13, 2016
I am a past client of his practice. Does anyone know where his records went and if anyone is taking his place
Thank you He was a great person. L send his family my condolences thank you
Gerard 9179749045
Drew Selander
February 25, 2016
My condolences.....this man helped teach me the banjo and never knew it....I have worn out my computer listening to his 99 songs to learn timing, feel and speed, Thank you Ben!!
David Goboff
November 22, 2015
Dear Friends and Family of Ben. I was a high school friend and neighbor. Ben was a couple of years younger. Not too long ago (but more than a few years) I looked Ben up. We chatted, caught up, he sent me a CD of his music. I got the picture that he was happy, contented, and accomplished. We talked of our families now, and we talked about our memories of his sister Robin, and how she changed how we saw the world. Today I decided to look him up again, and so learned of his passing. I'm shocked. I'm sad. I'm very sorry for your loss.
Denise Adorante
August 16, 2015
I am so surprised and saddened to hear of Ben's passing. He gave me my foundation of playing banjo which I am still enjoying today. I am hoping to attending the event on September 26 to celebrate this great man and musician. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. I will think of him each time I pick up my instrument.
With sympathy,
Arnie Fleischer Banjo News
August 14, 2015
https://banjonews.com/2015-08/remembering_ben_freed.html
August 13, 2015
Condolence. A recent friend. I enjoyed Ben's music, and he always encouraged me to perform. Bob Rachlis Colorado, USA
A contribution has been made to the Fox Foundation in Ben's memory.
Elisa (Turk) Sumner
July 28, 2015
Another old friend from high school, brokenhearted at the news. Sending light and love.
Donna Wilmot Wattie
July 27, 2015
Ben was a friend to all, even as "far back" as high school. Blessings and prayers for Ben and his loved ones that he leaves on this earth.
Paul Christensen
July 27, 2015
To the friends and family of Ben Freed, may Gd console you, together with all mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.To the friends and family of Ben Freed, may Gd console you, together with all mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.-Paul Christensen-Valley Stream Central HS Class of 1974
Edward Renehan
July 27, 2015
God bless you old friend. Hail and farewell.
Adrienne Friedland
July 27, 2015
I am deeply saddened to hear of Ben's passing. We lived on the same street growing up in Valley Stream, Roberta. I will remember his unicycle and his smile. He was even special back then.
I am so sorry for your loss. My sincerest condolences.
With light & love...
Susan Olivo
July 22, 2015
Dear Nomi, Madelyn and Liza:
I was so fortunate to know Ben both as a colleague and a friend. Although, most sincerely, I wish that we had met sooner. We originally met when the SUNY College of Optometry suggested that I spend a day with him, visiting his Manhattan homebound patients. I was so impressed with the Homebound Program- and this was mostly due to the extraordinary doctor that allowed em to tag along with him- that I immediately recommended a grant to our board.
I know you know about his passion for SUNY's Homebound Program, but let me tell you about it from my perspective. I think this says a lot about Dr. Ben Freed:
Visiting homebound patients means carrying a heavy box of optometric equipment up several flights of stairs in apartment buildings without elevators. And if that weren't enough, it means being willing to carry lamps as well, and get down on your hands and knees to plug the lamp in the one outlet that is hidden behind the couch, or under the table. It means visiting neighborhoods that most people would prefer to avoid. It means dealing with people who are most times grateful, but sometimes not...cranky old people who do not make the doctor's job any easier. It means engaging people in conversation, and really listening, so that when a foundation executive accompanies you on your site visits, you are able to tell her all about the patient's life, past and present. It means having patience with your patients...even to the point where you can respond gently and engagingly when the patient with dementia asks you for the 20th time in one visit, "who are you?" It means treating patients, even those who have lost so much more than their eyesight, with dignity and respect.
And he did all this with a great passion, and a gentleness that bellied his size.
You must miss him so terribly.
Sincerely,
Susan Olivo
Executive Director
Reader's Digest Partners for Sight Foundation
Penny Van Dyne
July 14, 2015
Generous,sweet,kind and loving! That was Ben
Penny Van Dyne one of the Kende, Van Dyne tribe.
July 2, 2015
Banjo Ben - A Musical Celebration is on Facebook
A musical celebration honoring the life of Ben Freed and the music that he loved!
Muscoot Farm, 51 Route 100, Katonah, NY
September 26, 2015 1-6pm
Alfonso Ponce
July 2, 2015
Dear Nomi: I received the news about Ben passing away. His banjo will still be playing the sweet notes he always gave. I admired Ben since he became my teacher and then friend. For some reason in time he also became my patient and I was so honored how you guys trusted me. My heart and soul goes to you, Madelyn and Liza.
Your friend,
Alfonso Ponce
JN
July 2, 2015
A wonderful man and colleague. He was a bright light to those around him. He will be sorely missed.
DR. FREED AND THE NYEEI EYE CLINIC STAFF AT HIS FAREWELL PARTY
JULENNY VERAS
June 24, 2015
June 21, 2015
June 21, 2015
June 20, 2015
UVM Graduation 5/17/15
June 20, 2015
SUNY retirement luncheon 4/29/15
June 20, 2015
Liza's rendition
June 20, 2015
Favorite place -Pipes Cove
June 20, 2015
Ben and Tiny - Greenport
June 20, 2015
Ben and Madelyn
June 20, 2015
Ben and Liza
June 20, 2015
June 20, 2015
Ben and Richard a long time ago
June 20, 2015
SUNY Optometry class of '82
Freed
June 20, 2015
Evelyn De jesus
June 20, 2015
To the family of Dr. Freed, i want to thank you on behalf of my sons (Christopher and Joseph De Jesus) for his vision services of many years.. We were very saddened when we heard the news , he was soo caring and devoted, i always remember him giving my sons advice and asking about their future plans and always making sure they had all that they needed. He will be greatly missed
Town Clerk
June 18, 2015
Town of North Castle
Memorial Award for Community Service
Anne Warwick
June 18, 2015
SUNY College of Optometry
Chandi Ghosh
June 18, 2015
Dr Freed played a huge role in my training as an ophthalmologist. As a low vision specialist, he taught us at Queens Hospital Center as part of the LIJ-NS Ophthalmology Residency. Patients and students always came first with Dr. Freed. I loved, especially, hearing his stories about visiting an eye hospital in India and about playing the banjo. He had such a big heart.
Becca Pulliam
June 16, 2015
I was away from New York when I learned of Ben's sudden death, the memorial service, the shiva at home. It's the same home in which Ben and Nomi convened a group of friends for Thanksgiving dinners every January (or most of them). Ben and Nomi made this wonderful tradition happen, repeatedly and generously. I feel as though Ben served as captain of this wonderful group friendship, host of these feasts of food and conversation. And humor. Originally there was much discussion and appreciation of "Seinfeld," that's how far back the group goes. Thank you, Ben, and your remarkable family for the joyful occasions. And much more. Love,
Joseph B. Walsh, MD
June 2, 2015
To the family of Benjamin Freed,
On behalf of The Department of Ophthalmology at The New York Eye & Ear Infirmary, may I express our condolences to you on the loss of this remarkable human being. During his 20 years as Director of The Infirmary Low Vision Service, thousand of patients have gained an immeasurably improved quality of life due to Ben's expertise. His investment in taking the time to talk to, and perhaps more important, listen to those with diminished visual function, allowed an approach tailored to each individual's needs.
As vital as the service for these individuals is, Dr. Freed's love and enthusiasm for teaching Low Vision to countless residents, fellows and attendings (not only at The Infirmary but other teaching programs, The Lighthouse, etc.), ensured that throughout the USA, and even world wide, his recognition of what a quality/dedicated Low Vision Expert could mean in improving the myriad of low vision patients will be a legacy for which all of you can be proud.
On a personal note, I have been honored to have known, worked with and, to become a friend of Ben's. In all the years working together, his enthusiasm and love of his field and those he helped never wavered. The recent months with his new health burden, saddened him-- not for himself-- but unselfish as always-- but because he could no longer practice his craft at the extremely high level that he established. However, as always he was planning his next phase enthusiastically.
The world was a much better place for having him among us and I count myself very blessed to have had our time together.
A wonderful human being.
With deepest sympathy,
Sincerely,
Joseph B. Walsh, M.D., FACS, FRCOphth
Professor of Ophthalmology
Icahn School of Medicine Mt. Sinai
Distinguished Chair Emeritus
Department of Ophthalmology
New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai
arlene Schwartz
May 30, 2015
I am so very sorry for your loss. I was just told about it today and I cannot express how sorry I am. I knew him as an optometric colleague and all I can think about is ..what a nice guy. He will be missed
Jo Kirsch
May 29, 2015
Dear Nomi, Madelyn and Liza, I was so sad to hear of Ben's sudden passing. I will always remember his friendly greeting on Greenport weekends and his joy in sailing his catamarand around Peconic Bay. Hearing his sweet banjo music wafting over
from your deck was always a treat. He really was a Renaissance man and I always felt that he and Bernard had a special bond. Sending you all my heartfelt sympathy and much love, Jo
John Lawless
May 28, 2015
http://bluegrasstoday.com/ben-freed-passes/
Bluegrass Today
Ben Freed Passes
Matthew Nebel
May 28, 2015
Ben's eulogy from longtime friend Matt Nebel given on 5/23/15
It seems that if you were Ben's friend, you felt like you were his best friend. Ben had his quirks. He had his idiosyncrasies. He was outspoken and opinionated. He could ruffle your feathers. But you couldn't stay mad at him for long. He was too supportive, too positive, too down right good. From talking with other people, you'd hear the same responses, things like, He always told me what a great parent I was. , What a great job I was doing with my kids., How great I was at my job. He had respect for so many types of people and their vocations. With me he'd tell me what a great diagnostician I was, and recently how I was At the top of my game. He was so full of it, in a good way.
When we talked about his retirement lunch at the School of Optometry, he said, Some day when you retire, someone will do something like that for you. You deserve it. I said, I don't think so., but just knowing that he thought so highly of me was more than enough.
These are a few words I would use to describe him and some examples:
Enthusiastic: Whenever we'd plan something together I'd look forward to it because I knew how much he'd enjoy it. At seafood restaurants in Astoria, he'd make comments like, This is the best Red Snapper I've ever eaten. Having taken a sailing lesson together in Newport, RI, he'd reminisce, Wasn't that sailing lesson terrific. When he asked me to accompany him to the local animal shelter to examine his prospective Chihuahua adoptee, Tiny, I examined her, gave him a thumbs up, and handed him the dog. In a memory that is etched in my mind, he turned towards me and flashed a contented grin in a moment of sheer childlike joy.
Balanced: Whether it was his profession, his music, his social life or his family life, Ben mastered them all. Unlike some other talented people, he didn't sacrifice his family for his music, or his social life for his profession. He somehow kept it all going at once, like one of those plate spinning circus acts. He worked hard at all of it and never wavered.
Completeness: To Nomi, Madelyn and Liza. I want to tell you that as devastating as this is, I hope you have some comfort in the knowledge that your husband and father had a complete life. He had a single mindedness of purpose that allowed him to plow thru projects that most of us would just merely consider. He'd often sing all of your praises and was very proud of all of you. I think he accomplished most of what he wanted to do in his life. He was taken too soon, but if there was ever an example of quality over quantity, Ben was it. He ate life up. He ate it up in big bites. He lived his life with enthusiasm and consequently he was fulfilled. We all need to honor him by trying to do the same. We miss him. We love him. His spirit will always be part of us.
Don Horn
May 26, 2015
Freed family:
I am a vocational rehabilitation counselor with the New York State Commission for the Blind. In that capacity, I have worked closely with Dr. Freed for the past 25 years.
What I will always remember about him is how deeply he cared about his patients. Not only was he interested in meeting their low vision needs, he did his utmost to make sure that they received all of the other rehabilitation services which would benefit them. He frequently contacted me while one of my clients was in his office to talk about what he would be recommending and to inquire about other services the client might need. Because of the extra time he took, and because he was so passionate about his work, his loss will have a profound impact on the rehabilitation community. We will, however, always remember him and will try to do our very best for our clients in his honor.
Ben Fraker
May 26, 2015
Simply put, Ben was a great guy.
I knew him as a musician, and when I was new to bluegrass, he was extremely supportive and encouraging - his enthusiasm was infective.
Listening to one of his recordings the other night, I was reminded of what a wonderfully inventive and agile player he was, and couldn't believe that I would not get a chance to play with him again. He will be sorely missed in the bluegrass community.
Ben and Nomi getting the catamaran on to the bay
Madelyn Freed
May 26, 2015
Ben and Karen with the dogs at Greenport
Madelyn Freed
May 26, 2015
Ben's favorite daughter
Madelyn Freed
May 26, 2015
Ben wants Tiny back from Matt
Madelyn Freed
May 26, 2015
A lost cockatiel flew onto to Ben's shoulder
Madelyn Freed
May 26, 2015
Madelyn Freed
May 26, 2015
Mad watching Dad learn the harmonica
Madelyn Freed
May 26, 2015
At Mimi and Elizabeth's wedding
Madelyn Freed
May 26, 2015
Mad watches Dad learn the harmonica
Madelyn Freed
May 26, 2015
Lisa Van Dyne
May 26, 2015
So sorry to hear of Ben's passing. I can picture him sitting with Ethan, their heads together laughing about something and just having a moment together, or lost in his playing. I know he loved you all so very much his face would light up whenever he spoke of you, or looked at you across the room.
Having lost Dad just his past year I can imagine how you are feeling right now and I can tell you it gets easier. Remember the good times, remember the smiles, remember Ben, always and he will be with you.
Much love, Lisa
avi pandey
May 26, 2015
May the family of Dr. Freed know no more sorrows--may you be comforted among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.
Ken Ciuffreda
May 26, 2015
Ben was a unique and wonderful person.
DR. Ken Ciuffreda
SUNY/Optometry
Distinguished Teaching Professor
Tom Hanford
May 26, 2015
Ben, lovely Ben, I'm going back to find your music. You always pushed me to be better, and I'll always love you for that!
Sleepy Hollow String Band 2015
Nomi Schwartz
May 26, 2015
Ben & Richard winter 2015
Nomi Schwartz
May 26, 2015
Ben and Matt summer 2014
Nomi Schwartz
May 26, 2015
Nomi Schwartz
May 25, 2015
Madelyn, Ben, Liza 1993
Nomi Schwartz
May 25, 2015
Liza, Madelyn, Ben 5/17/15
Nomi Schwartz
May 25, 2015
Nathan Nataneli
May 25, 2015
Dear Freed family,
Dr Freed helped train me during my Ophthalmology residency at Bronx-Lebanon. I've missed him during his recent absence.
In addition to loving treating people with poor vision, he always loved talking about his family and his passion for music.
He was a kind and talented doctor and teacher, who was a role model for generations of residents and students. There must be thousands of New Yorkers out there who, in spite of severe eye disease, are able to lead independent and dignified lives thanks to Dr. Freed.
Please accept my sincerest condolences on your family's painful loss.
Nathan Nataneli
Joan Harrison
May 24, 2015
http://hvbluegrass.org/articles/news/1111-ben-freed-a-loss-to-bluegrass-community.html
Mad and Dad dog Halloween 2014
Madelyn Freed
May 24, 2015
Madelyn Freed
May 24, 2015
Madelyn Freed ( Ben's older daughter. Speech given at memorial service 5/23/15)
Thank you all for coming. He was a man who made an impact on all of you, enough that you all came to honor him. You knew him from his outside life, where he mentored you, learned from you, played with you, worked with you. But I got to be fathered by him. It was my great privilege.
We joke in the family that there's an obvious split. Mom and Liza, Madelyn and Dad. Those who are good at buying gifts vs. those who are bad at receiving them. And I recently used his fifteen year old computer that he refused to update and honestly it was very easy to use!
He had endless energy for projects. Many of you know him from music, but remember he did that after a full day of seeing patients. And then he'd make us go for a walk with the dog. And after that he'd make us all go sailing.
He understood who I was fully. He told me that parents know their children better than they know themselves because they're always watching from before the child had any memories. He watched me become myself, and he'd say don't you know how I trust your decisions? Don't you know how much I admire you?
He was not always an easy person to get along with. I have learned that it's easier just to mow the damn lawn. Once when I was a teenager, we had a big fight. Who knows what it was about. I was so mad, and I had finally figured him all out. So I told him everything that was wrong with him, how impossible he was. And he said, yep. You get it. That's who I am, and that's who I'll always be. It's up to you to learn how to get along with me. That lesson stayed with me. He knew that people are just who they are, and that you should love them for it.
He was proud of his role as a father. He was always mad when a television show had a doofus dad character. He was not a stereotype. He took care of us in a way that taught Liza and me to be strong.
During Mother's Day he had us all say something nice about our mothers. He said his gave him endless love, and what more could you want than that. I want to tell you the nice thing I said about my mother because I have a captive audience. I said that no matter what, she is the person I turn to to make sense of a situation, to calm me down. She is the mature voice of reason who reduces anxiety and makes me laugh, always. She will help me make sense of this. I love you, Mom.
When someone dies suddenly, people often talk about the things left unsaid. I have none of those regrets. Some of you may know the feeling I have. Every call, every conversation included the list of love and support he felt for me. He told me how proud he was of me. How much he wanted me to be happy. Every conversation. I didn't have to read between the lines. That means everything to me now. I hope you all learn that from him. Say you're proud, repeat, repeat, repeat.
Nomi Schwartz
May 24, 2015
Nomi Schwartz (Freed) - Ben's spouse speech given at memorial service 5/23/15
Thank you all so much for coming.
Anyone who ever made plans with Ben would know how he probably would have reacted to this event ----he would have first said that he was open to anything, that he was totally fine with whatever we all decide, that he was easy, and then about an hour before he would have suggested something totally different and would have strongly lobbied to change everything -- the time and the place to somewhere else perhaps the Katonah diner or most likely, to all-you-can-eat sushi in Stamford .
His second greatest joy in life was performing. He loved standing up in front of a crowd, telling bad banjo jokes and wowing people with his skills honed over a 40-year obsession with the 5 string banjo. And if you follow bluegrass blogs you can read about his influence.
But his greatest joy was with us, his family. He lost his family of birth early on So we made a new one w Madelyn and Liza and many good friends and musicians. His pride in these children was intense and he always saw them through the eyes of his parents - Milton and Ruth and his sister Robin who never got to know them.We just spend last weekend celebrating Liza's graduation from UVM and her acceptance into the New York State teaching fellows program. We really had a great time.
He was delighted with Liza's achievement. And I'll give him all the credit he sought for motivating both kids and insisting on diligence and excellence.He was equally proud of Madelyn's great success in a field she knew nothing about and we never will. And in their many skills & interests in the arts. He really felt that if they had a true passion to pursue an art, they should go for it with his blessing. Because he hadn't be given that option and sometimes regretted it.
So he became an optometrist like his beloved father but with a specialty in low vision and rehabilitation -- he helped so many people and I know this because in the way he practiced, there was no wall between work and home - hundreds of his conversations and phone messages from patients were clearly audible in our family room. And he daily spent hours describing in great detail to potential patients what low vision services could and couldn't do. Patiently, loudly, repeating it to the 80 and 90 year olds.
I have one story about the only homebound patient of his I actually met. It's not about his refraction skills, which were legend, but his constant desire to help. Sheila was bed bound due to post polio syndrome and lived for more than 20 years unmoving in a 9x12 room in a Stuyvesant town apartment but she had been a professional in her early days and was intellectually very engaged and had friends all over the world. She couldn't use a computer, she said, because of her position in the bed -- so he went home and fashioned a slanted lap stand out of wood and brought it to her and had her use a stick to hit the keys. When he went back a few months later, she was on her computer 7 or 8 hours a day, emailing people around the world, ordering books, and researching stuff. She never tired of saying that he had changed her life forever.
On an early date with him We sat in my apartment and he told me that he wrote songs. Anyone who has been on a date can imagine the horror of hearing someone tell you that they write poetry or music and would you like to hear it. So I prepared my face in a frozen smile and thought up noncommittal comments I could make. Then he picked up my guitar And started playing the songs he used to write - ones with words - And damn...it changed the whole way I thought about him.
He had decided before I did that ours should be a permanent relationship and in his single minded way he made it happen and we were married 28 years ago tomorrow. And at our very fun and beautiful wedding, my dear friend and maid of honor Helen, made a toast and she said a lot kind, lovely things about me and about our long friendship and she ended with -- "and Ben
...he's growing on me."
And he has and he did.
I love you, Ben.
Kasra Eliasieh
May 24, 2015
I was an ophthalmology resident at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary from 2009-2012. I always enjoyed sharing patients with Ben. He was generous with his knowledge about low vision, always eager to help and teach the residents, and such a pleasure to work with. He left an impression on me and will forever in my mind represent the best of the Infirmary. He will really be missed. My deepest condolensces to the Freed family.
Les Bayer
May 23, 2015
A great musician with impeccable taste. Will always remember his years performing with the Yankee rebels and recording our first album.
Madelyn Freed
May 23, 2015
PLEASE NOTE. PLEASE NOTE PLEASE NOTE
A memorial service is scheduled for Sat., May 23, at the Hergenhan Recreation Center, 40 Maple Ave., in Armonk from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.
Nomi Freed
May 23, 2015
PLEASE NOTE
A memorial service is scheduled for Sat., May 23, at the Hergenhan Recreation Center, 40 Maple Ave., in Armonk from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.
Dan Mirkin
May 23, 2015
A very nice man who taught me a lot about low vision.
Nick Novia
May 23, 2015
Thank you for the notice Nomi, and I am so sorry for you, and the girls. He loved you all so much and bragged on all of you whenever he had a chance. I too....have a heavy, and broken heart...for we have lost a true and wonderful friend and mentor.
Evelyn Mojica
May 23, 2015
It is really shocking to learn about this. My deepest condolences to the family and friends on behalf of the Residents in training in Ophthalmology at Bronx-Lebanon Hospital Center. Dr. Freed was a great educator in Low Vision, and the Residents in training always expressed the appreciation of the great opportunity they had when doing rotation with him.
Dr. Freed will solely be missed by all of us here at Bronx-Lebanon Hospital.
Best regards,
Evelyn Mojica, Coordinator
Ophthalmology Residency Program
Bronx-Lebanon Hospital Center
Nick Novia
May 23, 2015
Ben Freed was a friend to all, an inspirational cheerleader for musicians everywhere, especially bluegrass musicians, especially banjo players. It was great being in a band with him (American Flyer), or a jam with him, or just a quiet conversation. A wonderful, generous man.
Phil Zimmerman
May 23, 2015
Ben Freed was a friend to all, an inspirational cheerleader for musicians everywhere, especially bluegrass musicians, especially banjo players. It was great being in a band with him (American Flyer), or a jam with him, or just a quiet conversation. A wonderful, generous man.
Ethan Wiley
May 23, 2015
My heart goes out to you and your family. Ben's generosity of spirit and brilliant talent will be long remembered. His music is always on heavy rotation in my iPod and so I will think of him often... My deepest condolences...
Ethan Wiley
Barbara Diehl
May 23, 2015
I am so very, very sorry. My prayers are for strength and comfort for Nomi and daughters. Ben brought such light and joy into my life with his gift of teaching me banjo, which I so truly love. I am grateful to him -- and to his family for sharing him with all of us
Jen Larson
May 23, 2015
A note here to say message received and I'm deeply saddened and shocked by this. I spoke with Ethan this morning, and please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. Ben holds a dear place in my heart for providing me with support, encouragement, and the occasional musical challenge (I will never forget the first time I met him at an American Flyer rehearsal/audition!), and I'm so glad that in the past few years I got to gig with him as much as I did. Facebook is exploding with similar messages and rememberences. Interesting to see how many lives he touched musically, and that's not even mentioning his work as a doctor.
Please keep me posted if there's group news to share about a memorial, and if there's music I would be delighted to sing if that is in any way appropriate or fitting.
Best wishes,
Jen Larson
Mimi Fahs
May 23, 2015
This is so terribly unfair, deeply shocking, and so so sad.
A tragic loss. Just devastating.
He was such a wonderful man. I'm profoundly sorry. I miss him terribly already. His energy was a force, his talent a brilliance and joy, his friendship a deeply important part of my life.
Thank you for sharing your wonderful husband, father, and friend with me. I am a better person for having known him.
With my deepest sympathy and love,
Mim
Albert Palumbo
May 22, 2015
Ben was an extremely gifted and talented artist and optometrist, as well as a wonderful friend. In addition to his great natural talent, Ben always worked as hard as possible to be the best he could be at everything he did. The world has lost a truly great human being.
Joel Sklar
May 22, 2015
I've known Ben for about 38 years... He was so eager to share. Just 2 weeks ago, he gave me a tour of his Optometry Antique Equipment display at the University. 38 years was just not enough...
Joel Sklar
May 22, 2015
I've know Ben for about 38 years.... and so wished that I could have known him better.... Just 2 weeks ago, he shared his Ophthalmic Equipment museum display with me... he was a facinating man... an old friend... and a part of my growth as a doctor.
Guy Koth
May 22, 2015
Dear Madelyn and the family,
I am deeply saddened by the news of your loss. I hope that you get the strength needed to get through this moment in your life.
My most sincere condolences.
brad einhorn
May 22, 2015
This is shocking news and very hard to process. Danny Erker and I met Ben at the Joe Val Bluegrass Festival a couple months after starting the Cobble Hillbillies in 2002 or 3. He graciously invited us up to his home the next weekend to record a live demo... which he even more graciously played banjo and dobro on and had Ethan Kende join us on bass too. To say it elevated what we were capable of at that point and opened doors for getting our first gigs in nyc are two massive understatements. I remember being amazed watching him roll effortlessly between his protools setup and mic stand mid song. Really expected to be doing a lot more picking with BanjoBen for many more years to come... Condolences to all his family and friends.
Sarah Ryan
May 22, 2015
Maddie + family,
I am so, so sorry for your loss. I'm sending you all lots of hugs and love during this difficult time. I'll be thinking of you tons.
Love,
Sarah Ryan
Gabby Bellettieri
May 22, 2015
This family has always been one above the rest. The thoughtfulness, artisticness and uniqueness that we all love about this family is due greatly to their amazing father. A memory I'll always have is going over Liza's house during my childhood and Ben always playing his banjo in the basement, filling the house with soul and happiness. His soul has been instilled into the hearts of many, and I can't thank him enough for so perfectly raising my best friend for life.
Rest in Peace.
Annie (Berenbom) Wishna
May 22, 2015
I am so sorry for your loss. I was fortunate to have the opportunity to know Ben both as a teacher at New York Eye and Ear and as a member of my New York family (the Rapaports). You are all in my thoughts
Vanessa Ambroselli
May 22, 2015
Liza,
I am so sorry for your loss. I will never forget the picture you painted of the two of you in highschool. He was so lucky to have such a talented and intelligent daughter. Sending love and prayers to you and your family.
-Vanessa Ambroselli
Stephanie P Ledgin
May 22, 2015
To Nomi, Madelyn, Liza -- May Ben's "other family," i.e. the legions of bluegrass friends and colleagues, provide solace and a never-ending source of strength, light, and love.
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