Benjamin Oberto Obituary, Death – The tragic death of Benjamin Oberto, a 45-year-old Wisconsin man, in a car crash shortly after leaving a Crystal Lake restaurant has prompted his widow, Laura Leatherberry, to push for changes to improve safety on a dangerous highway ramp. Oberto’s death highlights concerns about a stretch of road known for prior accidents, raising questions about preventative measures that could save lives.
The Fatal Incident
On the night of November 13, Oberto, a sales manager for the wine distribution company Massanois, LLC, had been dining at 1776 Restaurant in Crystal Lake, Illinois. He was traveling back to his home in New Berlin, Wisconsin, when tragedy struck.
Oberto was reported missing when he did not return home that night. Two days later, Rosemont Police officers discovered his Subaru Impreza partially submerged in a creek at the bottom of an embankment on the Interstate 90 eastbound ramp to Interstate 294 northbound. Divers found Oberto’s body inside the vehicle.
Authorities confirmed the crash occurred on a curve along the ramp, a location with a history of similar incidents, according to the Daily Herald.
A Call for Guardrails and Signage
Leatherberry has since dedicated herself to advocating for safety improvements at the site of the crash. She has researched other accidents that occurred in the same area and reached out to state and federal officials.
She believes installing guardrails and better signage to warn drivers of the sharp curve could prevent future tragedies. While she acknowledges there is no way to know whether such measures would have saved her husband, she feels compelled to act.
“I don’t know if this guardrail would have saved my husband’s life,” Leatherberry said. “But I know I can help save other people’s lives.”
Remembering Benjamin Oberto
Oberto’s death has deeply affected his family, friends, colleagues, and the Crystal Lake restaurant community. Known for his warmth and passion for the wine industry, he was a beloved figure who made lasting connections with those he met.
Staff at 1776 Restaurant, where Oberto was a frequent guest, described him as more than just a business associate. “Ben quickly became family to our staffers and gained many friendships with our guests over the years,” the restaurant shared in a heartfelt Facebook post. “He brought so much joy and laughter into our lives.”
Oberto’s colleagues at Massanois, LLC, also mourned his passing. Known as a pillar in the wine industry, he inspired countless individuals with his enthusiasm and expertise.
Community Support
In the wake of Oberto’s death, friends and colleagues have rallied to support his family. A GoFundMe campaign organized by Massanois, LLC, and family friend Jennifer Powell has raised over $109,000 to help alleviate the financial burdens faced by Leatherberry and their family.
“Ben was not only the backbone of his family but also a kind and selfless member of our community,” Powell wrote. “His absence will be felt by the countless lives he touched.”
The funds will assist with immediate expenses and provide long-term financial stability for Oberto’s family as they navigate life without him.
Ongoing Efforts for Safety
Leatherberry’s efforts to improve safety at the crash site are driven by her desire to prevent other families from experiencing similar heartbreak. The ramp’s curve and lack of adequate protections have been implicated in previous accidents, underscoring the need for immediate attention from authorities.
Her advocacy has brought the issue into the spotlight, highlighting the importance of infrastructure improvements to enhance road safety. Leatherberry hopes that her push for change will lead to meaningful action, such as the installation of guardrails and improved signage, that could protect lives in the future.
A Legacy of Connection and Passion
Oberto’s death has left a void in the lives of those who knew and loved him. Yet, his legacy of generosity, passion, and connection endures. Friends and colleagues encourage others to honor his memory by exploring new wines and embracing the spirit of curiosity and excitement that he embodied.
As his wife and community work to honor his memory through advocacy and support, Oberto’s life serves as a reminder of the impact one person can have on so many. The hope is that his untimely passing will inspire changes that make roads safer for everyone.
How to Help
For those wishing to support Oberto’s family, donations can be made through the GoFundMe campaign, which continues to accept contributions. Every donation not only helps ease the financial burden on his loved ones but also stands as a testament to the lasting connections Oberto made in his life.
In his honor, advocates for road safety call on officials to address hazardous road conditions, ensuring no other family has to endure such a loss.
