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Richmond, Virginia

Benjamin Bandas Obituary

Benjamin Denson Bandas, 20 of Richmond, died July 20, 2006. He is survived by his mother, Kay Denson of Richmond; father, William I. Bandas of Washington, D.C.; brother, David T. Bandas and sister-in-law, Kathleen Bandas of Richmond; sister, Jocelyn B. Kellner and her husband, Kenny of Richmond; maternal grandmother, Mrs. Charles L. Denson of Roanoke; paternal grandmother, Mrs. Gertrude B. Bandas of Richmond. His remains rest at the Bliley Funeral Homes' Central Chapel, 3801 Augusta Avenue, where the family will receive friends 2:30 to 4 p.m. Sunday and where services will be held at 4 p.m. Interment 11 a.m. Monday in Evergreen Cemetery, Roanoke Va. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to Trinity Episcopal School, 3850 Pittaway Drive, Richmond, Va. 23235.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Richmond Times-Dispatch from Jul. 21 to Jul. 22, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for Benjamin Bandas

Not sure what to say?





Rebecca Sacrey

August 6, 2006

Ben,

You have no idea how hurt I am that you are gone. I have never met anyone quite like you. I feel honored to have been your friend, and envy the people who knew you longer. I love you, and I never got the opportunity to tell you so. I'll miss your smile, your voice, and your amazing ability to make everyone happy. The cons will just seem so empty without you. I wish I would have had the chance to talk to you one last time, to tell you how much you meant to me. You were truly a beautiful person and I hope you are at peace now. To Ben's mom: I only met you once, but I wanted to say thank you for bringing such a wonderful person into this world. Ben, I will never ever forget you. Our visit will just be postponed until I see you in heaven.

Love forever,

"Ba Ba Ba Becka"-as you liked to call me. I love you darlin

Sharon Radabaugh

July 29, 2006

Ben was always a delightful person, full of creativity and fun. I am grateful I knew him during his brief sojourn here on planet earth.

July 27, 2006

Dear Kay,

Words cannot adequately express our deep sadness at the loss of your precious Ben. Please know that you are both in our hearts and prayers.



Love,



Kai & Richard

Joshua Mott

July 27, 2006

I regret having never known Ben as well as some of our mutual friends. We crossed paths rarely, yet still the news of this untimely tragedy struck me with shock and the sort of sadness and displeasure I'm certain was foreign to Ben, given his unrelenting positivity and a sense of humor that seeped from his presence. His Magnaminity of spirit never ceased to escape our brief meetings and discussions, and while I'm uncertain as to how well I was remembered from one encounter to another, I 'm convinced that at the start of each of these, he would have been more than willing to treat me warmly, with open ears, as an established friend. My sincerist sympathies and peaceful wishes go out to the family, friends, and to Ben himself.

David Ripley

July 26, 2006

Kay - you are in my thoughts every day.

All my love, David

Laura Knapp

July 25, 2006

I will miss you Ben. I will never forget my 3 year old naming you "marker" in Nana's pool five years ago. You all giggled, laughed and played -- the picture is on my shelf -- all the Bandas grandkids and great grandkids! I also remember when you were born and I have pictures of you from around 1990, with Nana of course. Love to the entire family: Billy, Kay, David, Jocelyn

Bill Lemmond

July 24, 2006

I'm grateful for Ben's help with the local animation convention. With his help, what started as the most inclusive and positive gathering I've experienced has grown bigger by half, every year. Guests have been a big part of it, and Ben helped the guests feel welcome.



... There are never enough people around with a good sense of humor. Now we have to wait.

Gabriel Rhen

July 24, 2006

Some people have such a spark of personality that you remember them even when you only met them once, amid thousands of people. This was the case for Ben, who I only met once, but remembered the moment I saw his picture. It's sad when the world looses someone like this. Knowing the pain of loosing someone close, my heart goes out to all those who loved him.

Brenda Reddinger

July 24, 2006

Big Ben, you will be missed greatly. I only knew you for the short times that we smiled and talked at conventions I only wish I had more time to know you like others have. I only wish that you are truely at peace and have found a better place. You will be in my heart.



To Ben's Family, I'm sorry for your loss. I can't begin to understand what you must be going through. I only hope that time will heal your wounds.

Debra Young

July 24, 2006

Kay,

So sorry to hear about Ben. Just wanted you to know I am thinking of you in your loss and keeping you in my prayers.

Bailey Bayard

July 23, 2006

I will always remember Ben as happy, always making everyone else happy around him. Though I did not know him like a brother, he was a dear friend, and will be missed very much.

Brian Wysong

July 23, 2006

big Ben,

i will forever remember you as an inspiration. Your legacy of laughter and hugs will be sorely missed. I know that you have inspired others besides me to be a better person. You are truly a beautiful person and irreplaceable friend and the spirit of your personality will live on forever. As much as i fought your hugs at school they always made me feel better. Your spirit was infectious. I will never forget the nights you me and tim would just walk around forest hills.

I will miss you but know you live on in our hearts.

Love,

Little Brian Wysong.

Judy Carter

July 23, 2006

Kay,I extend my sympathy to you and your family during this difficult time. I have not seen Ben since he was a small and cute child, but I will always remember him at Lone Oaks when I baby sit for him.



May God be with you and Ben. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Stephanie DePaolis

July 23, 2006

Big Ben,

Your hugs, laughter and smile will be sorely missed. I wish that I had a chance to say goodbye and have one last hug before you went.



My prayers are with you and your family.



We love you and will miss you.

Samantha and Eddie

July 23, 2006

Our love and prayers go out to Ben's family and all who loved him.

We will miss him very much. I know We feel very blessed to have known Ben. We love you Ben!!!!

Patricia McCaughey

July 23, 2006

Dear Bandas Family,



Jimmie Sue Fish and I were neighbors of Gert when she was living at 7005 Coachman Lane, Carriage Hills. We both wish to offer our deepest sympathy in the loss of her grandson. Although we did not know Ben, we did see him coming and going over the years to visit his grandmother with the other members of his family until Gert moved away from here a few years ago. We were both greatly saddened to see the notice in the newspaper. Please know we are thinking of Ben's parents too and how they must be suffering. Our prayers are with you all.

Bruce Hunroe

July 23, 2006

Ben bounding into my 8th grade Geography class was a bright spot in my day, everyday. I deem it a privilege to have been his teacher, advisor, friend and confidant. There are simply no words to describe the degree to which Ben Bandas was loved, admired and respected by the students, faculty and staff of Trinity Episcopal School.

Copeland Casati

July 22, 2006

Dear Jocelyn, Dear All of Ben's Family,

Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time. Please let us know what we can do...

Much love,

Copeland Casati (Jane Sakowski's sister)

Mary & Lee Sprague

July 22, 2006

Ben was such a friendly and loving person. His sense of humor and positive spirit will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.

ken hopson

July 22, 2006

jocelyn, david and all of ben's family.



i am sorry for your loss. may your grief be lessened by wonderful memories.



ken, ashley and isaak

Martha Clements

July 22, 2006

Dear 15th Floor Neighbor Ben,



Thank you for all of your kind remarks and your beautiful smiling face on the elevator and at the mail box. I wish I had spent more time with you, one never knows these things until it's too late. I wish I had taken the time.



God bless you and keep you, tell my son Brooks hello for me, he's been there for six years.

The Marcus Family

July 22, 2006

We are so honored that even for just a short while Ben was a part of our family. We will miss him deeply. We love you Ben!!!!

Kristen Murray

July 22, 2006

In lieu of flowers, Helen and George Murray have donated to Trinity Episcopal School in honor of Ben Bandas. He always lavashed such sweet attention on them every Easter. They are little but also sad.

Laura Kerfoot

July 22, 2006

Ben,

My day was always better when you were in it. You were truly a gift to the world, and I feel lucky for having known you, even though it was so short. We miss you and you'll always be loved.

Bob Rentz

July 22, 2006

Dear Kay,

I could never find the words to tell you how so,so sorry I am about Ben.

You are in heart and in my prayers.

I love you,

Bob

RICH DIAMOND

July 22, 2006

DAVID AND JOCELYN, I AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS,MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU.

Jessica Burruss

July 22, 2006

I'm so sad you're gone, Ben. I won't get to see you use your impressive four lungs anymore at the conventions and that just makes me cry. Be at peace now, Big Ben.

Anna Carroll

July 22, 2006

I'm very upset that I won't be able to attend the funeral. I want to so much, maybe then this will actually sink in.



There are so many things I remember about Ben. He was a wonderful friend and person. I wish I knew what to say, or how to feel now that he's gone because the world suddenly feels hollow and how can other people be happy when Ben is gone?



BenBen, I'll always love you. I know you wouldn't want us to cry so much but we can't help it, even knowing that you're in a better place. The tears are for our own loss of someone who made us laugh and love, for pain means nothing to you now, you are beyond it. I can only comfort myself with that. I know now that you're at peace.

Brian Mah

July 22, 2006

My condolences on your loss. I wish him good journey on the next life.



Again I want to wish my deep condolences to Ben's Family.

Becky

July 22, 2006

You offered me a hug when I was insecure in my place. Your memory lingers with me.

julie_ urena

July 22, 2006

My heart goes out to Ben's family and friends. He was such a special person to Trinity. Many of us, like me, will always remember him for his spirited enthusiasm and friendly nature. He was always ready to help. We'll miss you, Ben. Julie Urena

Katie Tharle

July 21, 2006

I worked with Ben at a few conventions and he quickly became one of my favorite people to see. He was always up for anything and tried his best at any task set before him. Though I only knew him a short time, he was someone I would consider a close friend. Big Ben, you will be sorely missed not only by me, but by all you touched in the convention community and life. Lots of love.

bruce rothenberg

July 21, 2006

kay,



i am saddened and so very sorry. my thoughts are with you.



bruce rothenberg

Sarah & Camille

July 21, 2006

The world is better for your having been in it, if only for too short a time. We will miss your smiling face and your huge hugs.

Kitty Hersey

July 21, 2006

I'll never forget this man. Ben was the most sweetest person to me every time at conventions. He always run up to me and give me the biggest hugs!

I wish things could have been different. Conventions will never, ever, be the same again.

I and many many others miss you Ben.



Kitty

Mike Stallings

July 21, 2006

Ben,

I did not know you very well, but when we met, it was great. I wish we could have talked more, and gotten closwer. To those who lost this wonderful person I so very sorry. My heart and prayers are with you.

Megan Wagner

July 21, 2006

I'm never going to forget how he made me laugh when I was crying or his big bear hugs whenever he saw me. I can only feel sad for those who never knew him.



Love you forever Ben. Rest in peace.

Laura Kopczinsky (maiden: Ciejek)

July 21, 2006

I still can't believe this has happened. I met Ben at an Anime meeting that our friends held and we hit it off from there. I just fell in love with Ben's personality. He took me to a John Mayer concert for my birthday when we were going out. I will NEVER forget you Ben. I don't know if you remember me mom (Kay) but my love, thoughts and prayers are with you.

Justin Blacker

July 21, 2006

Though I dont know Benjamin personally, he was part of Otakon Staff. So my heart goes out to his family and all that know him. My best regards.

Samantha Gonzalez

July 21, 2006

My dear Ben, words can't express how I feel right now. Best thing is kinda denial. I just can't believe it. >sigh< I will remember you. You were a great and fun loving guy. SOrry that I can't be there to say goodbye properly.

Noel Beebe

July 21, 2006

Ben was such a loveable and funny guy. I'm so honoured to have been his friend. He was such a great techno dancer.



He definitely will be missed! Ben, Adonai will take care of you now. Thank you for showing me the great path of Judaism. I dedicated my conversion to you.



Love you and one day we will meet again,



Your No-No

Chris Malone

July 21, 2006

Till we meet again, Ben. God Bless.

Stacy Blake

July 21, 2006

Ben,

You were loved by so many that this come as so much of a shock. You will forever be in the hearts of Eric and I, and hope that you are finally at peace.

Christina Vranian

July 21, 2006

Ben was an integral part of the Trinity Community. We all knew him well and loved him very much as a person and a student. In his short 20 years on Earth, he contributed very much through his ideas, his enthusiasm, and his spirit.

Olivia Glave

July 21, 2006

David and Jocelyn, I am so sorry for the great loss you are suffering through right now. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers and that I am here for both of you whenever you need me. When you need strength, I am here.

I love you both so much,

Olivia

David Royce

July 21, 2006

Kay,

Michael and I are in shock. Our thoughs and prayers are with you. I will call you again next week

Love, D & M

David Royce

July 21, 2006

Kay,

Michael and I are in shock. Our thoughs and prayers are with you.

Love, D & M

Aislinn "Zeki" Berry

July 21, 2006

Bencreature, I can't believe this is real. You were part of my big 'extended family' of friends. I'm at a loss for words. I'll miss you.

Sarah "Shelby" Day

July 21, 2006

I didn't know you all that well but still you were so friendly and sweet. You were always a taller and I can't ever remembering seeing you down. You were always so friendly, it seems everyone knew and loved you.

It's sad that you felt you had to go.

You will be missed.

Steve Bennett

July 21, 2006

Dear Bandas family and friends.



I am deeply saddend to hear that the world is one short again of a good man. I have the honor and pleasure of knowing your son Ben

while being one of his Cartoon Industry Guest charges through the Anime Convention community.

My memories of your son are of a good man who did so much to do right by folks at all times.

He was good natured and always brimming with smiles and laughter while keeping everyone he knew comfortable

He went above and beyond the call of his duties as a convention staffer which I will never forget.

I really enjoyed his company when time permitted, and it will be sorely missed.

He took good care of all he called friend and I am blessed to have been one among them.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during these hard times.

God be with you all.

Much love to you "Big Ben" and your family.



Yours respectfully,

Stephen & Nicole Bennett

Isa Dunaway

July 21, 2006

Ben was a very dear student. With his kind, fun personality and willingness to give it all that he had, he added that special Ben-touch to the choir that I will always remember - and miss.

Brian Kirkpatrick

July 21, 2006

Ben was one of the best people I knew. Everyone knew him, everyone liked him. This is a tragedy.

Edward Fortner

July 21, 2006

The Anime Mid-Atlantic Family will really miss him. He was a great person and great Guest Relations Staff.

Kevin Mitchell

July 21, 2006

We never had the opportunity to ever be much more than aquaintances, but in working with and seeing Ben at various cons, he never forgot who I was, and always had a smile and a friendly word to say. He was a joy to be around and his warmth will be sorely missed. My thoughts and wishes go out to his family and friends.

Susan Tracy

July 21, 2006

Dearest Kay,

I well remember when Ben came into this world. I so hope he's happy in the place he's chosen to go. Your "world" may never be the same, but know that you have our love and support, in all ways, to realize that you really can endure and you have the strength to find happiness in memories of Ben.

All my love, Susan

Gabrielle Brock

July 21, 2006

Kay, I am so terribly sorry for your loss. Ben was instantly loveable, and I will never forget him. Please take comfort in the many people who love you and are praying for your family.

Love,

Gaby

Ronald Charter

July 21, 2006

We loved you so very much.Rest in peace!You were welcome in our home and family anytime,the Charter's; Jessica,Susan,Ron and the "boys" Gizmo and Teddy

Kristen Murray

July 21, 2006

I can not tell you how deeply sorry Iain and I are. Words simply can't escape my heavy heart. You and Ben are in our hearts, prayers, and thoughts. All Our Love, Kris & Iain, Helen & George

Sara Katree Irmen

July 21, 2006

Ben... You've left behind many friends who cared a lot for you, but we will go on. You were a part of the "family". I'll miss you "Bi Yan", I hope you actually are in a better place now. Much love for Ben and all of Ben's friends from Sara "Katree" Irmen

Rob Short

July 21, 2006

I will always remember Ben as a kind hearted kid chock full of imagination and ideas. I loved his sense of humor and the enthusiastic way he would find time to play a game of chess and talk to other kids at school.



His loss will be shared among many and I hope the words which follow from his friends in this guest book will give some small measure of relief to his family with fond memories shared.

elayne axel

July 21, 2006

I am in schock, over the happening of Benjamin. Please Kay call me (4916461) in Va beach, when u find time. I do not know what to say now, I send my feelings and my love, Elayne Lavenstein Axel

Crystal (Ojo) Howell

July 21, 2006

I'll miss you, Bencreature. Hearts and Hugs.

Courtney Epps

July 21, 2006

Ben-



I love you, and I will miss you very much. You brought a light into a lot of lives that would have otherwise been dull. I will always remember you, and not a day will go by that I don't miss you. I love you.

chloe

July 20, 2006

i love you so much, i will miss you so much, you were the best uncle in the world.

Showing 1 - 64 of 64 results

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