Benjamin Stephen Oberto 

April 3, 1979 – November 13, 2024  

 With heavy hearts, we celebrate the remarkable life of Benjamin Stephen Oberto, a loving husband, father, and friend. Ben left this world on November 13, 2024, at the age of 45, leaving behind his wife, Laura Leatherberry, and two beloved children, Cosette and Augie. He is survived by his mother, Janet Celata Oberto, father John P. Oberto, brother John J. Oberto, sisters Olivia and Abigail Oberto, and Laura’s parents Dave and Anne Leatherberry.

Born on April 3, 1979, Ben grew up in Arlington, Massachusetts. He embodied the spirit of adventure and joy from a young age, fostered by attending Belmont Day School, Dexter School, and Arlington High School. Ben was passionate about all sports and played hockey and tennis competitively. As a child, he spent time in Nantucket, where he loved to surf-cast off Madaket Beach.

 Ben’s academic journey led him to Northeastern University, where he majored in communications and media studies. His adventure into fatherhood began in 2003 with the arrival of his daughter, Cosette (Cosi) Hendrickse. Soon after, he moved from Boston, MA, to Palo Alto, CA, to nurture her throughout her early years, teaching at her preschool during the day while working at a restaurant at night. In 2006, Ben relocated to Dallas to stay close to Cosette.  

 Ben met his wife Laura in 2007 while working at a restaurant in Dallas. Their love blossomed instantly, marked by a charming first date involving a rescued kitten, leading them to become inseparable partners in life. Ben joined Laura in New York City in 2010, where they laid the foundation of their life together and married on June 7, 2013.  

 Ben’s professional journey began in the restaurant industry. In 2006, he started driving a wine delivery truck in Dallas, and then worked his way up to a prominent position in wine sales with Massanois in New York City. He became a pillar in the wine community, known for his expertise and genuine compassion for others. He had an uncanny ability to turn every person into a friend and placed value in each interaction. 

 An adventurous spirit, Ben loved traveling with Laura, fully engaging and connecting with people and cultures while in Italy, France, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Thailand, Cambodia, Chile, and Argentina. One of their most cherished trips was hiking and camping in Patagonia. He was an excellent photographer, producing evocative images and narratives. He had a special connection to his Italian heritage.

 With immense joy, Ben and Laura welcomed their son, August (Augie) Paul Oberto, into the world in May 2021. Augie was the center of Ben’s universe.

 After 12 wonderful years immersed in New York City, Ben embraced the opportunity to grow Massanois in Illinois, with his heart set on providing a nurturing home for his family. While initially seeking to settle in the Chicago area, Ben fell in love with Wisconsin and wanted to be closer to Laura’s family and give Augie a yard and a neighborhood to run around in. He flourished in this new life, proudly embracing the role of a midwestern suburban dad. His enthusiastic spirit shone through in every holiday decoration and friendly wave to neighbors as he transformed their cul-de-sac into a warm, welcoming community.

 Ben was immensely proud of Cosette, who is studying at Middlebury College and has spent time studying abroad in Japan. He worked diligently to support her and her education.

 Ben had a special gift for making everyone feel valued, regularly reaching out to family and friends with a smile and innumerable gestures of support and inclusion. His infectious positivity, sharp wit, generosity, and kindness left an indelible mark on those around him. With striking hazel-green eyes that sparkled with joy, he found happiness in the little things and the deep connections he forged throughout his life.

Though Ben has departed from this world, his vibrant spirit continues to inspire all who knew and loved him, forever remembering his unwavering love, distinctive laughter, and zest for life. He cherished the idea of being buried close to home, a sentiment echoing his deep-rooted connection to family and place.  

 A private memorial and burial will be held for family and close friends, with a Celebration of Life planned for everyone who knew and loved him on December 9, 2024, from 1-4 PM at Birch Restaurant in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Click Celebration of Life link to RSVP

www.heritagefuneral.com