Note by Satu Pelkonen

I was incredibly lucky to know Ben both as my boss and as a friend. When I moved to New York from Finland ten years ago, Ben was one of the first people I met. He was my manager at Stink Studios and over the years our work relationship grew into a friendship. After I left Stink Studios, Ben was the one who convinced me to join Squarespace — a decision that has shaped my entire career trajectory. His constant support and belief in my potential gave me the confidence to tackle new challenges and grow in ways I never imagined. Ben has had a huge impact both on my life and my career, and I genuinely wouldn't be where I am today without him. 

Above all, Ben was an amazing person. He had impeccable taste and he always pushed the work to be the best it could be. I can still hear him in my head saying “Do whatever’s best for the work” and I will forever strive to do that, because of Ben. Whether he was guiding me through a tricky project or just supporting me during tough times in my personal life, Ben was always there for me. His mentorship and friendship meant everything to me, and I am forever grateful for the impact he had on my life. His empathy, support, and kindness made him not just a great boss, but a true friend. Ben never missed a birthday wish or letting you know how much he appreciated you. He had a unique way of making everyone around him feel valued and supported and he was always there for you to listen if you needed him. He genuinely cared about people, their careers, and their personal lives, always making sure you’re doing okay and asking if there’s anything he can do to help you.

Ben also had this amazing knack for balancing work and parenting like it was no big deal. Even with a demanding career, he always made time for his family, showing us all just how much he loved them. He was a role model for many, proving you can rock both your job and personal life. I look up to him and hope to be that kind of parent someday. His boys were the center of his universe, and he loved talking about them, whether it was their latest art projects, Gabe’s love for wearing suits or showing me the latest adventures of Krok. His face would light up with pride and joy every time he talked about them. He would go into every little detail, from the colors in their drawings to the stories they made up. You could just feel the love he had for them, and it was clear they were his greatest achievement.

Ben touched the lives of so many and his legacy will continue to live on in the countless lives he touched, including mine and I'll be forever grateful for all the moments we shared. The world was truly a better place with Ben in it and I will miss his silly jokes, his amazing Spotify playlists, his advice and guidance, his laughter and his kindness - his memory will continue to inspire those of us who were fortunate enough to have known him. ❤️

— Satu Pelkonen