Benjamin J. LaFollette

Mr. Benjamin Joseph LaFollette, 33, passed away so peacefully at his home in Holyoke, MA, surrounded by those who loved him. Born in Pittsfield, MA, on September 11, 1991, son of Brian and Lisa (Harvey) LaFollette, he graduated from Pittsfield High School (2009) and UMASS Amherst (2014) with a degree in BioChemistry/Molecular Biology. Ben had a quick wit and dark humor and a penchant for the spooky, which made Halloween his favorite time of the year. He was painfully intelligent and unapologetically himself. Despite his tough exterior, Ben was a marshmallow inside, offering comfort and warmth to all who knew him, and had a way of making those around him feel special. He had a deep love for plants, proudly tending to his collection of several dozen, which brought him joy. He was also an avid collector of crystals, marveling at their quiet, ancient power and finding wonder in their intricate beauty. He was drawn to oddities and enchanted by the limitless world of fantasy. Ben worked at River Valley Co-op Market for over a decade, working his way up to Assistant Category Manager, where he forged lasting friendships with co-workers and customers alike. His greatest joy was his cat, George, who was his steadfast companion and keeper of his heart. Ben’s friends and family will sorely miss the man whose love and loyalty were unwavering. Ben is survived by his loving mother, Lisa, his father, Brian (Wendy), and his brother Brandon LaFollette (Molly). Grandparents Joanne and John Woodworth, Judy Wolfe, Ernie and Marcy LaFollette and Vergne and Barbara Harvey. Aunts Karen Burgess and Karen Araujo (Tony). Cousins Sarah Akers (Zac), Cameron and Laura Burgess, Christine Araujo-Weist (Chris) and Manny Araujo. Funeral Notice: Calling hours will be held on Thursday, October 3, 2024, at the Dwyer-Wellington Funeral Home in Dalton, 525 Main Street, Dalton, MA, from 4 pm to 5:30 pm, with a memorial service to follow at 5:30 pm, officiated by Deacon George Morrell. To view a livestream of this service, please visit https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=f4ac1890-99a2-4442-8b23-e72383695002 In lieu of flowers, donations in Benjamin’s memory can be made to his mother, Lisa LaFollete to help defray funeral and medical expenses.

Benjamin J. LaFollette

September 11, 1991 - September 25, 2024