ROSEMONT, IL – The search for a missing Wisconsin man came to a tragic end after his body was discovered following a car accident near Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport. Ben Oberto, 45, a resident of New Berlin, Wisconsin, had been unaccounted for since Thursday, raising concerns among family and friends.
Oberto was last seen in Crystal Lake, Illinois, where he was visiting on business as a wine representative. His last communication was a phone call to his wife, assuring her he would return home in time to tuck their son into bed. However, when Oberto did not arrive as promised, worry quickly turned into despair.
On Friday, authorities located Oberto’s vehicle submerged in a creek at the base of an embankment along the I-294 exit. Divers recovered his body from inside the car, confirming the worst fears of those who knew him.
Friends and colleagues have expressed their sorrow, painting a picture of a man who was not only dedicated to his work but also cherished for his vibrant personality. “Ben had a way of making everyone feel welcome,” a close friend remarked. “His humor and energy were infectious, and he was the kind of person people just loved to be around.”
Oberto was a valued employee at Massanois LLC, a company that mourned his loss in a public statement. They described him as a person whose “levity, kindness, and enthusiasm” had a profound impact on those he worked with. His unwavering work ethic and positive spirit were highlighted as vital elements of the company’s success.
The loss of Oberto leaves a void both at home and in the workplace. His family, friends, and colleagues are left to grapple with the sudden and unexpected tragedy. The community has rallied around them, offering support and condolences as they navigate this difficult time.
Investigations into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing, as authorities seek to piece together the events leading up to the accident. The discovery of Oberto’s car in the creek has raised questions about how and why the vehicle left the roadway.
As the investigation continues, those who knew Oberto are left to remember the joy he brought into their lives. His legacy of laughter and kindness remains a testament to the impact he had on those around him.