Who was Benjamin von Sternenfels Rosenthal?

Benjamin von Sternenfels Rosenthal was a writer, elite athlete, devoted son, brother, and friend. His loved ones called him “Bimmy” or “Bim.” Ben had no tolerance for bullies and was acutely sensitive to inequities and the struggles of others. 

As he navigated living with a mental illness, Ben leaned on his gift for writing with sharpness and humor by penning fiction, short stories, essays, screenplays and a novel. It is where he found peace and respite from anguish. He rarely shared what he wrote.

In the weeks leading up to August 19, 2019, when Ben took his life, he wrote a great deal. After Ben died, his family found a trove of his writing—his final words gifts for those who loved him. They were words not of anger and pain. But of understanding, grace, serenity and love.

Ben is survived by his mother Inka v. Sternenfels, siblings Adam and Ariella, father Robert J. Rosenthal, and many cousins, aunts, uncles and friends.