Our Inspiration

Bennett Matthew Huibregtse (2003-2020)

Meet Bennett Matthew Huibregtse, the beautiful soul behind so many smiles.

Bennett was kind, gentle, funny, and quietly witty, with a determined spirit that made him incredibly lovable, qualities many say he shared with his dad. Bennett lived a life filled with challenges, yet he never stopped bringing joy to the world. His laugh was pure happiness, and his smile had a way of lighting up every room. Bennett loved people, and more than anything, he loved to make them smile. His face would light up when he knew he had made you laugh, a look that so many will never forget.

Bennett had a way of communicating that was uniquely his own. With excitement in his voice, he loved to shout (very loudly) “DONE!”, “MOM!”, “GO”, and “BUDDEEEE!”, words that carried so much of his personality. Even without traditional conversation, Bennett always made himself understood. He connected with people in a way that was funny and unforgettable.

Bennett loved the simple things in life: riding horses, trips to the beach, swimming in his pool, time with his cousins, and being outdoors. When you were with Bennett, you simply saw a funny boy who embraced every day, every moment, and every smile.

Through complex medical challenges, including two kidney transplants, Bennett showed amazing strength and resilience. He had a powerful will to live and an unwavering ability to keep smiling, reminding everyone around him what true courage looks like.

Just 18 months before Bennett was born, his parents lost their first son, Matthew Dean Huibregtse, to the same rare kidney disease Bennett would face. Though Matthew’s life was brief, the love and knowledge gained during that time helped guide Bennett’s journey and allowed him to live 16½ beautiful years. Matthew will always be Bennett’s big brother and forever his superhero.

When Bennett passed on July 26, 2020, Dean and Kristin made a promise that his beautiful smile and legacy will continue to live on. In the 16½ years the world was blessed with Bennett, hardly a day passed without one of his unforgettable smiles. His life reminds us how powerful a simple smile can “B”.

Bennett will always be our Superman!