How Did Ben Wolfenden Die? ‘Inspirational’ Leeds Agency Owner Passed Away at 39
2 min read
Ben Wolfenden, the founder, and CEO of digital marketing agency Wolfenden, who died at the age of 39, has received tributes across the business community.
Despite having Cystic Fibrosis, Mr. Wolfenden sought potentially life-saving treatment in Geneva, Switzerland after complications arose following a double lung transplant in 2019.
Ben Wolfenden passed away on Friday 21 January following a chronic health decline. He left Daisy and their two children, Ivy, 4, and Max, 7 behind. A statement on behalf of his family said, “While Ben and his family, including Daisy, relocated to Geneva in November 2020, medical treatment wasn’t granted.
‘Inspiration’ Is What Ben Wolfenden Is Remembered For
As well as the Cystic Fibrosis community, Ben was regarded as an “inspiration” by many in the agency and business communities.
Mr. Wolfenden won the Stelios Award for Disabled Entrepreneurs in 2014 and received £50k. The money he received enabled him to grow his business. The company is known as Visibilis, and the company has continued to grow. In September 2020, Mr. Wolfenden’s health started to decline, so the company rebranded as Wolfenden to recognize his contribution.
At the Leeds Digital Festival Awards in October of the same year, Ben was voted Entrepreneur of the Year by his peers. Just weeks before making the long trek by road to Geneva for the last attempt at life-saving treatment.
Tributes Have Poured In From Across The Community
As Ben’s wife Daisy broke the news on Monday, tributes have poured in from across the community. With many reminiscing moments and memories shared with him. Praising the inspirational impact he had despite his health struggles on so many across his successful 15-year marketing career.
Daisy commented that while the treatment in Switzerland wasn’t granted, they had a beautiful year of memories created. “Moments of freedom for Ben in Geneva that I wouldn’t have previously thought possible.”
“Ben’s condition has worsened over recent weeks to a point his body could no longer sustain.” He wanted it to be known that he tried to live to the full right till the end, he fought so hard and tried to treasure every moment.
Despite a life dominated by pain, his humor and courage shone brightly, and his smile touched the hearts of all who met him. Ben Wolfenden was a wonderful friend, mentor, colleague, father, family member, and husband.
Ankita Khanrah
Ankita Khanrah is a second-year student of the Master of Communication and Journalism (Integrated) programme at the School of Mass Communication, KIIT Deemed University, Bhubaneswar.
