Will's Bench

Will's Bench William James Keys Memorial Bench at Lake Elise.

Nestled in a small opening at the edge of the lake this is the perfect place to reflect on life and to remember the person that we all love and miss so much. My hope is that this page can be an outlet for people to share their stories, pictures and memories of Will and that we can keep the memory of him strong.

I usually don't post my blog here, but today seems appropriate. I want to thank all who have contributed to buying a new...
04/19/2026

I usually don't post my blog here, but today seems appropriate. I want to thank all who have contributed to buying a new bench. I am in the process of looking for something that will stand the test of time. Hard to believe it has been 15 years. I love that you remember him and continue to tell his story. I really can't thank you enough for that. Love always, Mom Keys.

Spring has sprung with this easy and delicious strawberry rhubarb crumble. Top it with a scoop of ice cream for the perfect sweet ending.

He continues to be surrounded by so many loving people. Thank you.
04/14/2026

He continues to be surrounded by so many loving people. Thank you.

Hi everyone, Many of us hold dear memories of our incredible frien… Julianne Rowland needs your support for Honoring Will Keys: Restore His Memorial Bench

My son continues to be surrounded by the most kind and loving people. Thanks to all who are simply thinking of him. ❤️ t...
04/14/2026

My son continues to be surrounded by the most kind and loving people. Thanks to all who are simply thinking of him. ❤️ the bench will be back!

Hi everyone, Many of us hold dear memories of our incredible frien… Julianne Rowland needs your support for Honoring Will Keys: Restore His Memorial Bench

04/13/2026

It’s hard for me to imagine but Will’s Bench has been vandalized beyond repair. Someone thought it was a good idea to break it up and use it as firewood at the lake. The police have been notified. If anyone has any information on the idiots who did this please contact the Middlebury police.

Thanks to Rich Beebe and his sister Janice for the holiday swag.
12/09/2025

Thanks to Rich Beebe and his sister Janice for the holiday swag.

Thanks to Rusty Bona for his devotion to all Veterans 🫶🏻
11/11/2025

Thanks to Rusty Bona for his devotion to all Veterans 🫶🏻

10/25/2025
On this most beautiful day I am pleased to announce that Will’s Bench is back and has been relocated to a new spot at La...
10/25/2025

On this most beautiful day I am pleased to announce that Will’s Bench is back and has been relocated to a new spot at Lake Elise, thanks to the efforts of Carol and Richard Walsh and Tony Pacileo. A big shout out to Alice Hallaran as well.

This Memorial Day weekend, my heart feels a bit heavy as I share some news about Will's bench. The New England weather, ...
05/23/2025

This Memorial Day weekend, my heart feels a bit heavy as I share some news about Will's bench. The New England weather, as we know, can be relentless, and it has truly taken its toll on the bench over the years. Adding to that, a very large, dead pine tree directly above it has continued to drop branches, breaking various parts of it.

Because of this, we've made the difficult decision that the bench will need to be taken down. We're still considering whether or not to replace it, but with that looming dead tree, it doesn't seem very likely for now.

Regardless of whether there's a physical bench there, I sincerely hope you will always feel Will's amazing presence in that special place. His spirit will forever be a part of it.

Following in your light always reminds me that life can be so good. Big food competition today and I believe you saved m...
11/12/2024

Following in your light always reminds me that life can be so good. Big food competition today and I believe you saved my ass yesterday. Did you send that Angel to rescue me? Love you forever and missing you 💯

Address

Lake Elise
Middlebury, CT
06762

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