Benjamin Schmidt

Our precious son, brother, grandson, nephew, friend, and best friend, Benjamin Christopher Schmidt, passed away on April 29, 2022. He was 22. He was born into this world on the same bright sun-filled day of July as his mom, July 24th. Ben graduated Vestal Senior High School and went on to attend Binghamton University where he studied Italian language, architecture, literature, and art. Ben was predeceased by his Uncle Matt Yourst of Vestal, NY, whose intellect and clever use of puns entertained Ben endlessly.  Those who will continue on in his memory, in spirit, and with never-ending love are his mother, Melanie Anne Schmidt (Yourst), his father, David Christopher Schmidt, Ben’s sister, Anna Mary Schmidt, his step-mother, Martine C. Barnaby, step-sister and step-brother, Gabby and Adin, maternal grandfather, Steven M. Yourst and Grammie, Connie L. L. Yourst. Ben was predeceased by his maternal grandmother, Kathleen A. Yourst in February. Also predeceased by his paternal grandmother, Mary Titus Schmidt and grandfather, John R. Schmidt of Elmira, NY. Ben is also survived by many well-loved aunts and uncles and cousins who inspired the young man he became during his short years on this earth. His best friend Rony, who stood by his side with unimaginable grace and kindness. Alexa Ozeta, a great friend and source of love and support. And Lucie, Ben and Anna’s 13 year old St. Bernard who still hangs on, full of life, providing those remaining here without Ben, great comfort and sweetness. Ben’s passionate interests above all were writing, endlessly practicing his guitar, learning the Italian language, and traveling and studying in Italy and Switzerland.

But his compassion for the feelings of people and animals who Ben deeply loved and cared for is what made him so unique as a young man. Ben had a way of reaching out to those who were hurting or to people he was missing in his life. He would send short poems, or notes of encouragement, or gifts with no return address attached, expecting nothing in return. It was his way to let others know and feel that they were loved.  Of course Ben’s outward expressions of love and giving that were intentional and thoughtful are permanently imprinted on our hearts. Perhaps the greatest expression of his love was the bravery with which Ben faced his challenges. He did the best he could do every second to make sure his loved ones were protected, regardless of how he was feeling. He is the most courageous person we will ever know. Ben’s endless inquisitiveness and curiosity always had him in search for answers.        We know now that he has all the answers, and that is all that matters.

If you are one of those fortunate enough to have had your heart softened by Ben’s careful, loving intentions for you, then may you always think of him and smile. And if you’re ever in Italy, please visit the Duomo in Florence, notice how cool the Naples airport is, and look at the lake inside Mt. Vesuvius if you fly over it. Ben would want you to appreciate those things.

A Celebration of Ben’s life is scheduled at Savage-DeMarco Funeral Service 338-344 Conklin Ave Binghamton, NY 13903, for the evening of Sunday, May 22, 2022 outside on the grass at Twilight. please dress comfortably and wear something that will represent artistic color, music, bands, art, or movies.  The family will receive friends at Savage-DeMarco FS 338 Conklin Ave from 7pm until the twilight candle vigil.  Family requests to not send flowers as donations will be more beneficial.  Please make donations to Broome County Humane Society (167 Conklin Ave. Binghamton, NY 13903, info@bchumanesoc.com, (607) 724-3709). A scholarship in Ben’s memory will be established to assist students seeking to study abroad.  Express condolences online at www.SavageFS.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Benjamin Schmidt, please visit our floral store.