Benjamin Shay Resnick Gertz
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Benjamin Shay Resnick Gertz was welcomed to this world on June 16, 1996, and was immediately identified as an "old soul." He passed away on July 16, 2018 after a courageous effort against a terrible cancer, never losing hope, never complaining, and never giving up. His character shone through at every stage of his life, and guided his quiet and principled way of moving through the world. Shay touched many people in his short life with his wisdom, determination, sense of humor and loving kindness. Shay is survived by his parents, Debra Lee Gertz, Carole Resnick, and Richard Dorritie, and by his grandmother, many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and loved ones.
Shay attended the Montessori School of Syracuse, and Manlius Pebble School, where he was recognized at graduation with a high honor given to the senior who best represents the personal qualities of loyalty, courage, integrity, citizenship, and dependability. He was generous with his technology skills, and for his senior project supported younger students with reading disabilities to learn self acceptance and to use the technology which Shay utilized himself.
Shay was a skilled and empowered advocate for himself and others, and never failed to speak up for what was right in an articulate and effective way. He also knew the art of acceptance, and had the capacity to be with reality as it unfolded in his life with patience and grace. Shay loved nature very deeply, and was happiest outdoors when he wasn't working. He loved biking and lacrosse, hiking, photography, and music. His studies in technology at RIT were central in his life, but his work life at Innovative Technologies was at least as important to him. Shay thrived in settings where his knowledge and skills could be applied in community with others. He cherished his friends, co-workers, and family, and was cherished and appreciated in return.
Contributions in Shay's memory may be made to Greenpeace, or PCRF.net
Funeral services will be at 2PM on Friday July 20 at Sisskind Funeral Chapel. Friends may visit with the family immediately prior to the service on Friday from 1 to 2PM at the funeral chapel,
3175 E. Genesee Street. Burial will be in Frumah Packard Cemetery.
www.sisskindfuneralservice.com
Message of Sympathy
Post a Message of Sympathy
With heavy hearts, we send our deepest condolences during this time of great sorrow.
Written by Sandra Bigtree & Phil Arnold
2018-07-18 11:59:59 AM
What a fine man. What a beautiful soul. What sorrow. My love to all who loved him so well.
Written by Jack Manno
2018-07-18 12:48:32 PM
I have such fond memories of Shay during his time at the Montessori School. He was such a sweet boy, thoughtful and kind. He will be missed by so many of us. Sending love and prayers to his parents and family.
Written by Amy Melton
2018-07-18 1:20:14 PM
Shay was a blessing to our community. I am grateful for his life and the joy he brought to so many, especially his parents. My heart and condolences are with you all during this difficult time.
Written by Lindsay Speer
2018-07-18 2:03:42 PM
My heart is breaking for you,Carol. I can only hope that time will eventually bring some healing, and that your memories of the fine man you raised, will comfort you. My deepest condolences go to you and your family. And of course,my love.
Written by Patricia Carmeli
2018-07-18 4:08:00 PM
It is with great sadness I send my deepest sympathy, thoughts and concern. May you find solace in your memories.
Written by Sue Eiholzer
2018-07-18 4:26:53 PM
Shay was a wonderful student at RIT. He was a leader for team projects, a bright light in the classroom, always with a uplifting smile, good words about everything, and a joy to have as a student. Hearing of this cancer and passing brings sadness. My thought, prayers and feeling of heart break go to his family and those who really knew Shay. He was an amazing person.
Written by Michael Floeser
2018-07-18 4:53:31 PM
I am so sorry. May he be at peace and peace be with you.
Written by Gina Iliev
2018-07-18 5:14:22 PM
We send our sympathy and love to you and your family at this time
Written by Deborah Paul Sara Less- Henegan
2018-07-18 5:48:14 PM
A beautiful and moving tribute to An extraordinary young man - the world is a better place because of Shay and all those whose lives touched. I am so grateful that he was part of my life and for the riches I received from him. My hearts goes out to the amazing and strong women who raised this extraordinary young man. Love, aunt sue 2
Written by Susan Gertz
2018-07-18 5:54:38 PM
Prayers. Cannot offer words for a loss of this magnitude. Just join all of you, especially Carole, in grief and pain.
Written by Hari Chathrattil
2018-07-18 6:54:52 AM
Dearest Debra and family, we were so saddened to hear of the passing of your beloved son. He seemed to be a very loved and accomplished young man. This is truly a loss for you and all those that knew and loved him. Joanne and John Verone
Written by Joanne Verone
2018-07-19 10:16:20 PM
I loved Shay with all my heart. Even though we grew apart and went our separate ways as we grew older, I always found myself thinking of the “good times” when we’d play for hours as children, without getting bored. I loved spending time with him just playing and talking. He was one of the truest friends I’ve ever known. I’ll always love you Shay, and I know for some odd reason, we always had a special connection. Love, Gus <3
Written by Gus Weinstein
2018-07-19 11:57:49 PM
I am so very, very sorry Debra Lee and family for your deep loss. There are no words. Please know that my heart and prayers are with you and will continue to be with you all. Love to you.
Written by Judy Campanella
2018-07-19 12:53:15 PM
Shay inspired such love from so many people. Although I only knew him second-hand, he was clearly a blessing and a joy to his family, his friends and his community. I am so sorry for your loss.
Written by Alma Lowry
2018-07-19 2:15:22 PM
I wish there were words. Know that our hearts break... May all love surround you.
Written by Gary Weinstein
2018-07-19 3:12:03 PM
I am so sorry to hear of Shay's passing. I had the privilege of knowing Shay as a student in a course I was teaching last spring at RIT. He was an ideal student and more importantly, a wonderful person. He will be missed. My thoughts and condolences to his family and friends during this most difficult time.
Written by Elissa Weeden
2018-07-19 6:56:50 PM
My condolences to Debra Lee and family. Blessings to all of you. Love, Maryann
Written by Maryann Piazza
2018-07-19 8:24:10 PM
Shay was a kind and gentle soul who exuded goodness. In his quiet way, he moved the world forward to be better.. I am terribly sad and there are no words adequate to the task here. I send much love and healing energy to both of you, Carole and Deb, and hope to be able to hug you both soon.
Written by Mara Sapon-Shevin
2018-07-19 9:35:22 PM
I have no words to express my deep sadness. Shay’s gentle easy spirit touched my life. I am grateful I had the opportunity to get to know him during my visits to Syracuse. I am holding you both in my heart with much love
Written by Andrea Malik
2018-07-20 11:19:01 AM
I was truly blessed to have Shay’s presence in my life. His tenderness, patience and generosity touched me to my core and knowing him, quite simply, inspired me to be a better person. His finger print is forever on my life.
Written by Elizabeth Haag
2018-07-20 12:23:39 AM
As my heart is being shattered from the loss of my baby cousin and no words really suffice in a moment like this, I take joy in remembering his unusual authentic amazingness. I feel certain I’ve never known a finer man. I will miss you forever. Rest In Peace.
Written by Bree Peterson-Resnick
2018-07-20 12:55:59 PM
What a beautiful tribute to an extraordinary person. My condolences, love and prayers are with you.
Written by Keyla Fisk
2018-07-20 12:57:49 AM
Debra Lee, Carole, my heart grieves with you. As a friend, and as a mother. There is a line in a Leonard Cohen song "we are born in love and in love we disappear". This is so obviously the case with Shay. The love you give to the world, to your friends and community is now here to hold you. With love, and in grief with you, Mary Jean
Written by MaryJean Byrne-Maisto
2018-07-20 1:22:56 PM
My favorite memory of Shay is one day my son & I were shoveling snow in front of his house when he was home from college. He told us we didn't have to shovel to which I replied that he was on vacation & shouldn't have to work. I also told him not to mention we had shoveled. He said he couldn't take credit for something he didn't do. This illustrated the kind of integrity he had & his strong work ethic. the world is poorer for his passing
Written by James Alpeter Jr
2018-07-20 3:32:30 AM
Although I didn't know Shay, I knew the two of you from "back in the day" and you,Debra, for treatment more recently. I want you to know that I have great compassion for you in the loss of a beautiful child who lived the bravery of devastating illnesz. It is so complex and very, very sad. May the love and support of those close to you sustain you, and the more distant caring and universal love of those like and beyond me, also contribute to your peace. Deborah Welsh
Written by Deborah Welsh
2018-07-20 4:09:49 PM
There are no words to express the sorrow and pain that is felt from this tragedy. My heart, sympathy and love go out to Shay's family. Though I never had the honor or privilege of meeting Shay, I know the world is greatly diminished by his passing. May time and all of our prayers bring comfort to his family, Diane and Tom Stadtmiller.
Written by Diane Stadtmiller
2018-07-20 9:55:51 PM
My heartfelt sympathy for you and your family. Shay was friends with Matthew during Montessori years and I recall him at my home for some of Matthew’s birthday parties. He was a joyful, polite, kind child with a beautiful spirt. I will remember him that way. A true gift to this world for his short time here. Please care for yourselves well, especially during this unspeakable time of loss. Deb King
Written by Deborah King
2018-07-21 5:46:33 PM
Shay has become a shining star that guides us home at the darkest night. Think of him when you see a Cardinal, he's saying Hello. Love, Doug and Cathy
Written by Doug and Cathy Powell
2018-07-22 11:14:30 PM
I am so sorry for your loss. May your pain be tempered with memories of joy and love. He was a beautiful child and clearly grew into a caring and kind young man. I am sending you so much love. -CD Clifford
Written by CD Clifford
2018-07-22 5:14:26 PM
Sending love and warmth to Shay’s family and friends from a fellow COLAGEr.
Written by Jamie Larson
2018-07-22 8:44:03 PM
Dear Debra Lee So sad and heartbroken to hear about your precious son. Please know you are being held close with deep love and sympathy. Maureen
Written by Maureen Woods
2018-07-23 11:22:10 AM
Dear Debra and Family, So sorry to hear of the loss of your wonderful son. He was incredible and brave. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Written by Suzanne & Bob Kotcher
2018-07-23 8:11:47 PM
Deepest sympathies, Deb; my thoughts are with your family. It's obvious how deeply and fully loved Shay was. May he be at peace.
Written by Colleen Gibbons
2018-07-24 12:49:30 PM
Post a Message of Sympathy
With heavy hearts, we send our deepest condolences during this time of great sorrow.
Written by Sandra Bigtree & Phil Arnold
2018-07-18 11:59:59 AM
What a fine man. What a beautiful soul. What sorrow. My love to all who loved him so well.
Written by Jack Manno
2018-07-18 12:48:32 PM
I have such fond memories of Shay during his time at the Montessori School. He was such a sweet boy, thoughtful and kind. He will be missed by so many of us. Sending love and prayers to his parents and family.
Written by Amy Melton
2018-07-18 1:20:14 PM
Shay was a blessing to our community. I am grateful for his life and the joy he brought to so many, especially his parents. My heart and condolences are with you all during this difficult time.
Written by Lindsay Speer
2018-07-18 2:03:42 PM
My heart is breaking for you,Carol. I can only hope that time will eventually bring some healing, and that your memories of the fine man you raised, will comfort you. My deepest condolences go to you and your family. And of course,my love.
Written by Patricia Carmeli
2018-07-18 4:08:00 PM
It is with great sadness I send my deepest sympathy, thoughts and concern. May you find solace in your memories.
Written by Sue Eiholzer
2018-07-18 4:26:53 PM
Shay was a wonderful student at RIT. He was a leader for team projects, a bright light in the classroom, always with a uplifting smile, good words about everything, and a joy to have as a student. Hearing of this cancer and passing brings sadness. My thought, prayers and feeling of heart break go to his family and those who really knew Shay. He was an amazing person.
Written by Michael Floeser
2018-07-18 4:53:31 PM
I am so sorry. May he be at peace and peace be with you.
Written by Gina Iliev
2018-07-18 5:14:22 PM
We send our sympathy and love to you and your family at this time
Written by Deborah Paul Sara Less- Henegan
2018-07-18 5:48:14 PM
A beautiful and moving tribute to An extraordinary young man - the world is a better place because of Shay and all those whose lives touched. I am so grateful that he was part of my life and for the riches I received from him. My hearts goes out to the amazing and strong women who raised this extraordinary young man. Love, aunt sue 2
Written by Susan Gertz
2018-07-18 5:54:38 PM
Prayers. Cannot offer words for a loss of this magnitude. Just join all of you, especially Carole, in grief and pain.
Written by Hari Chathrattil
2018-07-18 6:54:52 AM
Dearest Debra and family, we were so saddened to hear of the passing of your beloved son. He seemed to be a very loved and accomplished young man. This is truly a loss for you and all those that knew and loved him. Joanne and John Verone
Written by Joanne Verone
2018-07-19 10:16:20 PM
I loved Shay with all my heart. Even though we grew apart and went our separate ways as we grew older, I always found myself thinking of the “good times” when we’d play for hours as children, without getting bored. I loved spending time with him just playing and talking. He was one of the truest friends I’ve ever known. I’ll always love you Shay, and I know for some odd reason, we always had a special connection. Love, Gus <3
Written by Gus Weinstein
2018-07-19 11:57:49 PM
I am so very, very sorry Debra Lee and family for your deep loss. There are no words. Please know that my heart and prayers are with you and will continue to be with you all. Love to you.
Written by Judy Campanella
2018-07-19 12:53:15 PM
Shay inspired such love from so many people. Although I only knew him second-hand, he was clearly a blessing and a joy to his family, his friends and his community. I am so sorry for your loss.
Written by Alma Lowry
2018-07-19 2:15:22 PM
I wish there were words. Know that our hearts break... May all love surround you.
Written by Gary Weinstein
2018-07-19 3:12:03 PM
I am so sorry to hear of Shay's passing. I had the privilege of knowing Shay as a student in a course I was teaching last spring at RIT. He was an ideal student and more importantly, a wonderful person. He will be missed. My thoughts and condolences to his family and friends during this most difficult time.
Written by Elissa Weeden
2018-07-19 6:56:50 PM
My condolences to Debra Lee and family. Blessings to all of you. Love, Maryann
Written by Maryann Piazza
2018-07-19 8:24:10 PM
Shay was a kind and gentle soul who exuded goodness. In his quiet way, he moved the world forward to be better.. I am terribly sad and there are no words adequate to the task here. I send much love and healing energy to both of you, Carole and Deb, and hope to be able to hug you both soon.
Written by Mara Sapon-Shevin
2018-07-19 9:35:22 PM
I have no words to express my deep sadness. Shay’s gentle easy spirit touched my life. I am grateful I had the opportunity to get to know him during my visits to Syracuse. I am holding you both in my heart with much love
Written by Andrea Malik
2018-07-20 11:19:01 AM
I was truly blessed to have Shay’s presence in my life. His tenderness, patience and generosity touched me to my core and knowing him, quite simply, inspired me to be a better person. His finger print is forever on my life.
Written by Elizabeth Haag
2018-07-20 12:23:39 AM
As my heart is being shattered from the loss of my baby cousin and no words really suffice in a moment like this, I take joy in remembering his unusual authentic amazingness. I feel certain I’ve never known a finer man. I will miss you forever. Rest In Peace.
Written by Bree Peterson-Resnick
2018-07-20 12:55:59 PM
What a beautiful tribute to an extraordinary person. My condolences, love and prayers are with you.
Written by Keyla Fisk
2018-07-20 12:57:49 AM
Debra Lee, Carole, my heart grieves with you. As a friend, and as a mother. There is a line in a Leonard Cohen song "we are born in love and in love we disappear". This is so obviously the case with Shay. The love you give to the world, to your friends and community is now here to hold you. With love, and in grief with you, Mary Jean
Written by MaryJean Byrne-Maisto
2018-07-20 1:22:56 PM
My favorite memory of Shay is one day my son & I were shoveling snow in front of his house when he was home from college. He told us we didn't have to shovel to which I replied that he was on vacation & shouldn't have to work. I also told him not to mention we had shoveled. He said he couldn't take credit for something he didn't do. This illustrated the kind of integrity he had & his strong work ethic. the world is poorer for his passing
Written by James Alpeter Jr
2018-07-20 3:32:30 AM
Although I didn't know Shay, I knew the two of you from "back in the day" and you,Debra, for treatment more recently. I want you to know that I have great compassion for you in the loss of a beautiful child who lived the bravery of devastating illnesz. It is so complex and very, very sad. May the love and support of those close to you sustain you, and the more distant caring and universal love of those like and beyond me, also contribute to your peace. Deborah Welsh
Written by Deborah Welsh
2018-07-20 4:09:49 PM
There are no words to express the sorrow and pain that is felt from this tragedy. My heart, sympathy and love go out to Shay's family. Though I never had the honor or privilege of meeting Shay, I know the world is greatly diminished by his passing. May time and all of our prayers bring comfort to his family, Diane and Tom Stadtmiller.
Written by Diane Stadtmiller
2018-07-20 9:55:51 PM
My heartfelt sympathy for you and your family. Shay was friends with Matthew during Montessori years and I recall him at my home for some of Matthew’s birthday parties. He was a joyful, polite, kind child with a beautiful spirt. I will remember him that way. A true gift to this world for his short time here. Please care for yourselves well, especially during this unspeakable time of loss. Deb King
Written by Deborah King
2018-07-21 5:46:33 PM
Shay has become a shining star that guides us home at the darkest night. Think of him when you see a Cardinal, he's saying Hello. Love, Doug and Cathy
Written by Doug and Cathy Powell
2018-07-22 11:14:30 PM
I am so sorry for your loss. May your pain be tempered with memories of joy and love. He was a beautiful child and clearly grew into a caring and kind young man. I am sending you so much love. -CD Clifford
Written by CD Clifford
2018-07-22 5:14:26 PM
Sending love and warmth to Shay’s family and friends from a fellow COLAGEr.
Written by Jamie Larson
2018-07-22 8:44:03 PM
Dear Debra Lee So sad and heartbroken to hear about your precious son. Please know you are being held close with deep love and sympathy. Maureen
Written by Maureen Woods
2018-07-23 11:22:10 AM
Dear Debra and Family, So sorry to hear of the loss of your wonderful son. He was incredible and brave. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Written by Suzanne & Bob Kotcher
2018-07-23 8:11:47 PM
Deepest sympathies, Deb; my thoughts are with your family. It's obvious how deeply and fully loved Shay was. May he be at peace.
Written by Colleen Gibbons
2018-07-24 12:49:30 PM