Honoring Ben Wood: A Father, Hero, and Life Gone Too Soon

On March 9, 2026, an unimaginable tragedy took the lives of three extraordinary people in the coastal town of Algarrobo, Chile. Ben Wood, his partner Pepa and his father Norman all died in a courageous attempt to save to save a young woman and her partner who were swept out by a raging tide.

In their final moments, they acted with pure selflessness and bravery—an act that speaks volumes about who they were.

Ben was, above all else, a devoted and loving father to his daughter, Lucia. Every decision he made was guided by his desire to be present for her, to support her, and to build a life filled with love, stability, and possibility.

After living in London when Lucia was born, Ben moved back to New York and worked with Union Beer Distributors, where his career in the beer industry began and long-lasting ties that endured. He then followed his heart to Santiago, Chile in 2012 to be with Lucia. There, he built not only a life—but a legacy.

A true entrepreneur and visionary, Ben co-founded Beervana, introducing and growing Chile’s craft beer culture. He then co-founded El Honesto Mike, a beloved burger and craft beer destination, and Alameda Beer Co., a craft brewery that became part of the fabric of the local community. As Chile’s first Certified Cicerone, Ben was widely respected for his expertise, passion, and generosity. He didn’t just build businesses—he helped create an enduring, vibrant community.

To many in Santiago, Ben was more than a business owner, he was a friend, a mentor, and a source of joy. Known for his incredible sense of humor, warmth, and boundless creativity, he was exceptionally skilled at bringing people together.

But beyond all of his accomplishments, Ben’s greatest pride and deepest love was his family. My name is Megan, I am Ben's sister, Norm and Charlotte's daughter, and Lucia's aunt. Both Ben and my dad were two of the funniest, generous, optimistic and kindest men, and will be deeply missed.-two lives cut way too short.

How You Can Help

All funds raised will go directly toward supporting Ben’s daughter, Lucia, and his mother, Charlotte, as they navigate life after this profound loss. Contributions will help ensure they can continue to travel between Chile and the United States, maintaining the close family connection that meant so much to Ben.

Funds will also support Lucia’s future—particularly her education. Lucia will graduate high school next year and plans to pursue medical school. Your support will help give her the opportunity to continue on that path and build the future her father believed in so deeply.

Additionally, contributions will help ease the unexpected financial burdens that come with such a tragedy, allowing his family the space and time to grieve and heal.

If you knew Ben, you knew his generosity, his laughter, and his unwavering love for his family. If you didn’t, we hope his story inspires you the same way his life inspired so many others.

Thank you for your generosity in keeping our family in your thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.