The town public works employee struck by a motor vehicle late Wednesday morning in New Canaan has succumbed to his injuries, officials say.
Benjamin Olmstaed, 71, of Norwalk, had worked for the town for 37 years and he passed Thursday at Norwalk Hospital, according to First Selectman Rob Mallozzi and Police Chief Leon Krolikowski.
“Ben was truly a friend to all,” Mallozzi said in a letter sent by email Friday morning to municipal employees.
“This is a tremendous loss and my deepest sympathy is extended to the entire Olmstead family as well as our Town Hall family who worked with, and loved, Ben so very much.”
He was struck by a motor vehicle at about 11:20 a.m. while spray painting on Route 123, Krolikowski has said. A Norwalk man, 60, driving north on 123 struck Olmstead as he turned left onto East Avenue. The motorist remained on scene and an accident reconstruction team is working on the case, police have said.
Private and confidential services through the Employee Assistance Program are being provided to Department of Public Works staff, and counselors are being made available to all town workers, Mallozzi said.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday at St. Jerome Church, 23 Half Mile Rd., Norwalk, according to an obituary posted Saturday to Legacy.com. In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be made to St. Jerome Church.
Ben was always incredibly friendly and willing to share his extensive knowledge of New Canaan. He was a true gentleman and will surely be missed.