Surfer Killed by Shark in Santa Cruz County Identified as Ben Kelly

The 26 year old Santa Cruz county man killed by a shark Friday afternoon has been identified as Ben Kelly. The founder of Ben Kelly Surfboards was described as an ethical person, who was passionate about crafting surfboards. "It wasn't a way to get rich for him. He just loved the surf, the sand and the sea" remembered one friend and customer.

Kelly leaves behind a wife and many friends, and a website http://www.benkellysurfboards.com. It says:

"Why do I shape surfboards? Well... it's something I've done since I was a kid. A sort of escape from an overly-productive world to a simpler more creative space! What started as a way to fuel my own surfing passion has now become a way to stoke out my fellow surfers, and that is truly fulfilling to me. It's the way I have found to give back to others. Thanks for all the support and love along the way!

I am a self-taught shaper bringing the core fundamentals of board building into a fresh new mindset and clean modern feel that works for you! I love the process of creating: taking something raw and formless and making it into something both functional and aesthetic. This involves working directly with surfers where they are at in their surfing journey and equipping them to take the next step.

You should feel stoked each time you enter the water and comfortable on your own board. That is something worth investing in. I invite you to take the next step and venture forward in getting the right board for you.

Thanks for all the support and love along the way!"