The beloved Benjamin “Bennie” C. Schmidt Jr., born on September 29, 1932, in Preston, Oklahoma, peacefully passed away on June 10, 2023, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, at the age of 90. Bennie was surrounded by his loving family during his final moments.

Bennie’s journey through life was filled with love, joy, and tremendous accomplishments. For 70 years, he was married to the love of his life, Annitta, with whom he shared a beautiful family and a successful business that positively impacted the lives of thousands of individuals over four and a half decades. When not traveling the world to teach others about nutrition and entrepreneurship, Bennie found solace on the golf course, engaging in stock trading, passionately following Thunder basketball, and enthusiastically supporting the University of Oklahoma. His dedication to these endeavors was a testament to his vibrant spirit and zest for life.

Prior to settling in Bixby, Oklahoma, in 1975, Bennie and Annitta resided in Texas, Mississippi, and Alabama, where he achieved remarkable success in the insurance industry. In his earlier years, Bennie had the privilege of playing baseball alongside the legendary Mickey Mantle. Later on, he continued his involvement in sports as an umpire for baseball games and a referee for college basketball, showcasing his deep passion for the athletic world.

Bennie leaves behind a large and loving family who will forever cherish his memory. He is survived by his devoted wife, Annitta, and their three children: Leta Conley and her husband, James; David Schmidt and his wife, Kelly; and his youngest son, Tim Schmidt. Bennie’s grandchildren, including Jason Conley and his wife, Jaime; Kyla Caraway and her husband, Paul; Joseph Conley and his wife, Kelsea; Kara Sparks and her husband, Chris; Tasha Gawatz; Zach Gawatz and his wife, Hailey; and Phoenyx Anderson, were a constant source of joy and pride. His great-grandchildren, Grady, Braeden, Hollis, Madalyn, Lauren, Gunner, Cotton, Bridger, Colton, Cayden, Kimber, Noah, Hailey, and Maddie, brought immense happiness to his life. Additionally, Bennie is survived by his beloved baby sister, Sonja Harvey, as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews who cherished their time with him.

Bennie was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin C. Schmidt Sr. and Newell Schmidt, his brothers Joe Dee Schmidt and Thomas Schmidt, and his daughter-in-law, Tina Schmidt. While the pain of his loss is deeply felt, the memories and love he shared with his family will forever remain in their hearts.

The family will hold private services to honor Bennie’s life, allowing them to grieve together and celebrate the remarkable person he was.

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