Ben attended Lake Placid High School and then Saranac Lake High School, graduating from the latter in 2007. He was an unconditionally loving friend to many in his community. He had an infectious smile that had a magical way of reminding others not to take life too seriously and also to be kind to one another. He was an unapologetic flirt, leaving the world with many remaining open-ended marriage proposals.

Ben was an aficionado of United States presidential trivia, with a lifelong goal of visiting all presidential memorial sites. His presidential knowledge was only surpassed by his passion for 1990s cartoons, upcoming WrestleMania events, and the latest breakthroughs in the hunt for America’s Most Wanted. He was a self-proclaimed bowling tycoon and will be remembered as one of the great “Guess Who” board game sharks of all time.

It has often been said that it takes a community to raise a child, and Ben surely was the embodiment for that ideal. More than anything, Ben cherished human connection and the love that he felt from his community. He has been described both as the mayor and town crier as he seemed to have a friend, a memory, and a shared story around every corner. Some of his most joyous times were spent with his closest friends Dierdre, Jessica, Josh, Mary Ann and Baeleigh. He loved his family deeply including his dog, Sully.

In his health and throughout his illness, Ben truly was a one-of-a-kind man. As he cut a swath through this world, he served as a constant reminder that we are all a product of the community that nurtures, supports and loves us. Like all of us, Ben had some great, and then some more challenging days. He reminds us that we need to be there for each other. In the spirit of community, Ben will live on in the memories of the many that he crossed paths with.

Ben was predeceased by his younger sister, Hannah Elizabeth Baird, and he was laid to rest next to her during a private family service at the St. Agnes Cemetery.

Ben is survived by his parents, Cindy and Stuart Baird III, and his brothers Andrew and Stuart IV.

The Baird family is creating a scholarship in Ben’s memory. The scholarship will be dedicated to those seeking a career in healthcare, social services and advocacy. Donations may be mailed to: Lake Placid Central School, 50 Cummings Road Lake Placid, New York 12946.

The M. B. Clark, Inc., Funeral Home in Lake Placid is in charge of arrangements. Visit www.mbclarkfuneralhome.com to share a story or leave condolences.