Benjamin Edward “Teddy” Balkind, 16, of New Canaan, CT, passed away Thursday, January 6, 2022 at Greenwich Hospital.
Teddy Balkind
Born November 9, 2005, in Greenwich, Connecticut, he was the son of Buck and Leslie Balkind.
Teddy attended St. Luke’s School where he played on the varsity hockey team. An avid lover of the outdoors, Teddy spent his time biking through local trails and mountains, and cherished his time mountain biking with his god-father in Stowe, Vermont. He spent his summers on Bantam Lake at Camp Awosting, where he fished, swam and wake-boarded with his friends. Though he sometimes didn’t spend an adequate amount of time doing homework, he was a master of Xbox, eating hamburgers and making desserts after every meal. He was proud of his work at New Canaan Bicycles, where he dedicated his weekends to fixing bikes.
He had many passions throughout his childhood, and dedicated countless hours to fulfilling them. Strikingly independent and confident in himself, Teddy seemed to be afraid of nothing. He genuinely loved nothing more than to be in the presence of and learn from those he looked up to– whether that be at home, on the ice, on the mountain, or at school. He was always able to find the best qualities in others and truly sought to emulate them. Never failing to make those around him laugh, his infectious smile lit up every room, and he was not afraid to unexpectedly make mischief. He was undeniably loyal and would do anything for those he loved, including impulsively making crepes for his family on Sunday mornings.
Teddy could never quite conceal the abundance of affection he had for others, and in the last months of his life, he never looked happier than when he was talking about his friends and his girlfriend, Olivia. He never needed the attention of others and quietly made a difference in the lives of everyone he encountered. His remarkable kindness, confidence and passion will continue to affect the lives of his loved ones.
Teddy is survived by his parents, Leslie and Buck, his sister Karey, grandparents Mary Josephine Balkind, Edward and Karen Brown, aunts and uncles Erica and Bruce Wu, Sarah and Ellis Adler, cousins PJ, Jake, Max, and Sam, and god parents Lynne and Rand Eyberg. He is predeceased by his grandfather, Benjamin Hart Balkind, and his uncle, Benjamin Lee Balkind.
There will be a private service held in Teddy’s honor at Temple Shalom in Norwalk, CT, and a celebration of his life will be held at a date to be determined.
How incredibly tragic and painful is the loss of this sweet boy. We need to remember how fragile life can be, and treasure and make the most of what we have.
Our condolences go to the Balkind family on this terrible loss. It is a reminder that we should hug our children each day. Alan and Loni Haas
Another untimely death of our youth in the past 2 years. First little Lukey (2), then Nina (24) and now Teddy (16). I can’t help but shake my head in disbelief. My condolences to the family.
I am writing this in tears for the friends and family, the St. Luke and Brunswick community and all who have lost a child. There is nothing more devastating. My son played hockey. I remember 25 years ago there was talk of wearing a neck guard. The coaches thought that it was too uncomfortable. If this would be any consolation….would bringing this back up help this horrible accident to not happen again? Not necessarily for pro hockey, who have made this their profession….but for the children and students who play because they love the game. Strength to the Balkind family.
I remember him so well talking to him after refereeing his game at Winter Garden. He was truly a good kid so sorry for his loss prayers go out to his family . Mark Savran
I have no words to grieve for the loss of this youth. How can it be? How can this happen? “…But I find that thy will knows no end in me. And when old words die out on the tongue, new melodies break forth from the heart; and where the old tracks are lost, new country is revealed with its wonders.” (quote from Tagore’s Gitanjali). My truly heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. We mourn the loss with you.
Sincere condolences and deepest sympathies because there are no other words to share except may God be close with you at this tragic time. Rest In Peace Teddy. You have the face of an angel and now you really are an angel watching over your family.
Such a beautiful tribute to Teddy. It was lovely to read this and to het to know a little more about him and his interests and loves. I am so very sorry for your incredibly deep loss. Hugs, love and prayers to you all
Marie Trant
My sincere condolences to the Balkind family and friends. What a beautiful tribute – it sounds like his life touched many people, in many ways. May his memory be a blessing for you always.