Ben von Pentz

Jones Beach Lifeguard Corps. Mourns The Loss Of Fellow Lifeguard

May 9, 2009 “BVP” “The Baron”

Ben von Pentz was always willing and able to help those in need – so much so that he made a career of it. As a Jones Beach lifeguard since 1974 and employed full time as an emergency service professional, Ben embodied the compassion, composure, and sense of duty that characterize these fields. Whether leading a rescue at Field Two or responding to an emergency call, Ben was the epitome of a ‘lifesaver.’

Ben was the kind of lifeguard that every rookie would want to learn from. As Boatswain, Ben found the balance between being a leader and a friend. He shared his own experience and expertise and fostered an environment where new guards, though still neophytes, were still made to feel like a part of the team. A knowledgeable yet humble mentor, Ben made new lifeguards feel like they had been working with him since his own rookie days. Always ready to respond, he went above and beyond what most people would expect of a good officer and lifeguard. From guidance on rescues, to launching the boat, to making sure the fridge was stocked for “Salsa Sundays,” Ben did it all.

Ben’s deliberate and sincere manner influenced all of his lifeguard colleagues, and those that have risen through the lifeguard ranks have modeled their own conduct after Ben’s. BVP will be missed by the many Jones Beach lifeguards who worked with and for him over the years. Though he will no longer be a physical presence on the mainstand, his soul will continue to watch over beachgoers and fellow lifeguards. Ben will be remembered as a kind, sincere person who embodied the spirit of ‘the beach’. May he rest there forever.

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written by sue, May 14, 2009

Yes, Ben did pass away while jogging. He is my cousin on my mothers side. Sad to hear of his passing. Arrangments are still up in the air at this time. When something is decided by the family I am sure it will be posted.

Lifeguard/ Fireman
written by Ryan Mc, May 14, 2009

I've known Ben for just about a decade now and I have yet to meet someone like him, just always so selfless. Always there to help and give his know how and always a mediator between those who run the beach at Field Two and those officers who think they run Field Two. I will always remember Ben. An amazing man. The great Salsa Sundays. The great memories. Thank you Ben.

Female EMT Co-worker
written by Oneta M Hooper, May 15, 2009

People come into our life disguised as Angels and Sometimes Angels come into our life disguised as People................

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written by Francesca Davis, May 16, 2009

My husband and were privileged to be Ben's neighbor. As expressed above he was truly a wonderful human being and will be truly missed.

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written by Francesca Davis, May 16, 2009

One more thing... a memorial services has been set up by his EMT friends. Here are the details:

6:00pm
Monday, May 18
Northshore LIJ Manhasset
Rust Auditorium

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written by Adam, May 19, 2009

... I couldn't have put it better. Thank you to whomever wrote that remembrance of Ben. As a rookie lifeguard who had the privelege to work alongside Ben from my first to my last year (nine years total) I think that you expressed entirely who Ben was and why he was such a great friend and mentor to those around him. Mahalo!

Adam Kofod

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written by Laurie Brophy Buscaino, December 01, 2009

I grew up with Ben on Foster Lane in Westbury...I am so sorry to hear of his passing...haven't seen him for 10 years or so but I remember him fondly.

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written by Anthony, April 25, 2010

Almost a year has past. I feel like our friend and good neighbor is still with us.
His tulips are thriving, right on schedule.

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