Ben Woolf

Ben Woolf, much loved actor and pre-school teacher, passed away on February 23, 2015 at the age of 34 after being hit by a car near his home in Hollywood. Ben is survived by his father Nicholas Woolf, his mother Marcy Luikart, his sister Kathryn Woolf, his stepmother Sarajane Woolf, his stepfather Ralph Luikart, and stepsister Heather Luikart.

Ben’s courage, kindness, humor, talent, and determination in the face of challenges inspired everyone he met. He never doubted that he would make his dreams come true. Ben is best known for his two parts in the hit TV show “American Horror Story,” in which he played “Infantada” and “Meep.” Two weeks before he died he was honored in Moscow for his contributions to the horror genre at the Russian Horror Film Awards.

Ben was born in Fort Collins, Colorado, and grew up in Fairfield, Iowa. He moved with his family to Santa Barbara in 1999 where he was an active league pool player, improv theater performer, and karaoke enthusiast. Ben was a gentle, indomitable spirit, a well-known figure for walking everywhere around town and relaxing with the latest Harlan Coben thriller in local coffee shops. He earned a degree in Early Childhood Education at City College, teaching in the Head Start program in Goleta until 2010 when he moved to Hollywood to pursue his lifelong dream of making it as an actor.

Ben faced many challenges due to his short stature of 4’ 4’’ and the continuing health challenges of a serious childhood illness, but not once in his life did he complain. He remained unassumedly confident in himself regardless of whether his talents were recognized or appreciated. Ben showed the world what a person of integrity, kindness and gentleness can accomplish no matter what obstacles appear to be in the way. The world has responded since his untimely death with an outpouring of love, affection and admiration that has brought comfort and pride to his family.

All are welcome to a celebration of Ben’s life on March 21 at 1pm at Tucker’s Grove park (Area #5, Kiwanis Meadows). If Ben touched your heart as it did for so many, we will welcome your story of knowing Ben.

Contributions to The Ben Woolf Fund will be used for memorial BENches in his honor and four charities that reflect his values and ideals. More information at www.gofundme.com/benwoolf