The Wheaton, Illinois, community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Benjamin M. Rinker, a beloved husband, father, friend, and colleague whose unexpected passing has left family and friends devastated. Ben died on August 28, 2026, at the age of 40 while working out, leaving behind his wife, Leah, and their beloved 13-month-old daughter, Josie.
The sudden loss of a husband and father at such a young age is difficult to comprehend. For those who knew Ben, the pain has been made even more profound by the knowledge that his young daughter will grow up without the presence of her father. Yet, the memories he created and the love he shared with his family will remain an enduring part of Josie’s life.
Friends remember Ben as a warm, humorous, and genuine person who had a natural ability to make people feel comfortable and connected. His friendships extended into his professional and social communities, including his colleagues at ASI, where many memorable experiences were shared.
Among the activities Ben enjoyed was golf, a passion that became another way for him to build friendships and create lasting memories. Friends admired his impressive ability on the golf course, particularly his remarkable driving distance. Those who played alongside him recalled drives of approximately 330 yards and joked that his statistics could rival those of professional Tour players.
Ben was also deeply connected to the ZCS community, where news of his passing has prompted an outpouring of sympathy and support for the Rinker family. His connection to the community extended through his family, including his relationship with Tom DeJonge, his father-in-law and the 2024–2025 Interim Head of School.
At the center of Ben’s life was his family. His devotion to Leah and Josie was something those close to him will continue to remember. Although Josie was only 13 months old when her father died, friends are determined that she will grow up knowing how deeply her father was loved and what an extraordinary impact he had on those around him.
In the wake of Ben’s passing, his friends Matt, Jon, Parker, and Kevin organized support for Leah and Josie through the Josie J. Rinker Legacy Trust, also known as The Hey Josie Trust. The trust is intended to help provide for Josie’s education, care, maintenance, and future needs, with Leah serving as trustee.
For a family suddenly forced to face an unimaginable future without Ben, the support of friends and the wider community can provide meaningful strength. Every contribution, message, memory, and act of kindness can help carry forward the love Ben gave his family.
Ben Rinker’s life may have been far too short, but the memories he created will endure. He will be remembered as a loving husband, devoted father, loyal friend, talented golfer, and someone whose warmth and humor brought happiness to many lives.
May Ben’s memory remain a source of comfort to Leah, Josie, his family, friends, colleagues, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. May his loved ones find strength in one another and in the countless memories of a life that mattered deeply.