Ben Freund

Lambert ‘Ben’ Freund died from the complications of Alzheimer’s disease on October 3, 2024, at the age of 81 in Champaign, Illinois.



Ben was born on November 23, 1942 to Bernard and Anita Freund of Mchenry, Illinois. He always seemed surprised by his own life trajectory. The physical work of growing up on a farm stayed with him in spirit as he progressed through the University of Illinois and Northwestern on his way to becoming an eminent professor at Brown University. There he wrote the papers and books that defined subfields of mechanics, and in 1997 was inducted into the National Academy of Sciences. This is just one of many recognitions, yet he delighted most in the accomplishments of his students and mentees. 



Although he usually worked in solitary scholarship, he relished the company of his family and colleagues. As a young man he could dunk a basketball, he played guitar nearly his whole life, he did crossword puzzles with grandchildren, and he lost graciously to his children in chess despite his best efforts.



Despite the commitments and achievements of his work, family was top priority. Ben will be sorely missed by his wife of 59 years, Colleen, a steady life partner and skilled potter; by his sons Jonathan (Amy) of Illinois, Jeffrey (Megan) of Montana, and Stephen (Plum) of Massachusettes, who lead academic departments and companies; and by seven grandchildren, a mix of musicians, a computer scientist, college students, a high schooler, and a kindergartener.



A visitation will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 8 from 4-6 pm at Owens Funeral Home, 101 N Elm St, Champaign. The funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 am on Wednesday, Oct. 9 at St. Matthew Catholic Church, 1303 Lincolnshire Dr, Champaign. There will be a luncheon to follow in the Parish Hall. Burial will be held at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in East Providence, Rhode Island at a later date. Condolences can be made at Owensfuneralhomes.com

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