Dr. Oswaldo Daniel Benitez

Dr. Oswaldo Daniel Benitez, beloved father, adored grandfather, and proud great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 24, 2025 at the venerable age of 94. 

Oswaldo was born on July 21, 1930 in Matanzas, Cuba to Francisco Benítez Menzón and Bárbara Fransisca Hernandez. He met the love of his life, Gladys Benitez (née de los Angeles Iñigo) in Havana, Cuba, while studying medicine at Facultad de Medicina de la Universidad de la Habana. The couple married on August 16, 1954, marking the beginning of their extraordinary life together. 

Following Oswaldo’s graduation from medical school in 1956, he and Gladys, driven by the hope of a brighter future for their family, began the process of immigrating to the United States of America via Ybor City, Tampa, Florida. After living in several cities across two states, during which they were blessed with three children after losing their first son during birth, the family settled in Fort Pierce, Florida in 1973; Oswaldo and Gladys remained there for the rest of their lives. Although Gladys passed away on August 23, 2003, Oswaldo carried her memory with him every day, continuing to honor her by caring for and supporting their family. 

As a skilled surgeon for over 30 years and a dedicated general physician for over 60 years, Oswaldo was a respected pillar of the Fort Pierce community who was known for his compassion, skill, and commitment to his patients. He was highly regarded and admired by colleagues and patients alike. Whether in his office or out in public, “Dr. Benitez” was always greeted with enthusiasm and affection. Oswaldo’s greatest pride, however, was his family. 

Oswaldo is survived by his daughter Elizabeth Benitez and son-in-law Richard Holbert, daughter Frances Sarasola, and son Oswaldo Benitez, Jr. and daughter-in-law Olga Benitez; grandchildren Christina Ford and grandson-in-law Eric Ford, Nancy Schofield, Roger Schofield, Jose Sarasola, Daniel Benitez, and John Benitez; great-grandchildren Enzo Sarasola, Eli Sarasola, Eden Sarasola, and Leonardo Ford; and two special women who he loved like his own daughters, Miriam Montenegro and Emilita Cruz. He also leaves behind many other friends and loved ones as well as countless others whose lives he touched.

Oswaldo’s life was defined by his passion for medicine and healing, his fierce love for his family, and his generous nature. He was intelligent, wise, courageous, stubborn, opinionated, tenacious, hardworking, resilient, fun-loving, and mischievous with an undeniable charm and a penchant for a good bargain. Oswaldo enjoyed playing dominos and chess, would talk to anyone about anything, and sang beautifully. He was also captivated by the wild west and watched as many Westerns as he could. 

Oswaldo’s legacy lives in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to be loved by him. His memory will forever be a source of inspiration and comfort to those who knew and cherished him.

Services:  Visitation will be held on Friday, January 31, 2025 from 4:00-6:00 PM with a service to follow at 6:00 PM at Haisley Funeral Home, Fort Pierce.  Burial will take place on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at 10:00 AM at White City Cemetery.