Innovative CT Farmer Killed In Accident At Age 39

BETHLEHEM, CT — Benjamin Paul March, 39, of March Farm in Bethlehem, died after an accident on the family farm over the weekend "doing what he loved," according to his obituary from the Munson-Lovetere Funeral Home. March's utility terrain vehicle rolled over Saturday night. He later died at an area hospital as a result of the injuries from the accident, Fox 61 reported.

"After a short stint in the corporate world Ben decided to return to the family farm where he helped his family expand the business to what it is today — a thriving agri-tourism destination," his obituary said.

March is credited with breathing new life into the farm and helping it thrive once again. According to a Republican-American article, "March pioneered new approaches to keeping the farm in business and diversifying its revenue stream after the family abandoned its dairy production in 1988, building a robust greenhouse tomato business and a customer base from across New England for activities like pick-your-own fruits and corn, a playscape for children, hayrides and corn mazes." Weddings were also held at the farm.

On its Facebook page, March Farm described the depth of its pain after the accident.

"This Saturday night we were all shattered after a freak accident took my brother Ben March from us. To say we are all broken is an understatement. Ben was the mind behind many of the day to day aspects of the farm. He with the help of his father, uncle, cousin, and our Jamaican family members made March Farms what it is today....We will be closed Thursday for the memorial service and will be opened for this weekend. Please be patient with us while we pick up the pieces but be assured we are March Farms and our spirit to keep this farm going into the next generation will not be broke. On behalf of my whole family thank you to all who have reached out with prayers and condolences, it really means a great deal to us all. — Heather March-Hurley."

The family's social media post has more than 1,000 comments including one from Cari Erickson Brandt who wrote, "I love March Farm and all that it entails. Love your whole family. This entire community grieves with you and we will all be there with you in the many years to come. Ben has left his mark on every aspect of the farm and we will continue to see him there, everywhere, each time we visit. Sending love, support, and strength to you all."

Cheryl Malloy wrote, "Yes, you are March Farms, and we as a community are heartbroken for each of you, though know you will continue to bless us all with the amazing family you are, and with all you exude through the farm. Ben lives on through each of you, and in our minds eye we will continue to recall him here there and everywhere working the land."

Ben March was born June 18, 1980, at Charlotte Hungerford Hospital. He attended Holy Cross High School where he played football for the Crusaders and then went onto Western Connecticut State University where he also played football. When Ben wasn’t working he loved spending time with family and friends, playing volleyball, competing in Spartan races, watching football, and reading and traveling, according to his obituary.

"Ben was a fun-loving father and Uncle, he was often found entertaining the farm kids," his obituary states. "Ben was an amazing, gentle and loving man that touched the lives of everyone he came into contact with."

Ben leaves behind his wife, Larissa, daughter, Lola, parents Thomas and Susan, siblings Tommy, Heather and Emily and their spouses, grandmother Charlotte Collett, uncle Bill Collett, and cousin Shane Collett. He also leaves behind a large extended family including 15 nieces and nephews, and a large community of friends and neighbors.

Calling hours will be from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesdayat Munson Lovetere Funeral Home, 2 School St., Woodbury. A memorial service will be held at noon Thursday at Memorial Hall, 36 Main St. S., Bethlehem. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, a donation to a fund being established in his daughter's name is requested. Donations can be made to Lola Z. March and mailed to Thomaston Savings Bank, 73 Main St. S., Bethlehem, CT 06751. Condolences can be left on the funeral home website.