Obituary for Marvin “Butch” Bennett

Ponca City Now - May 26, 2023 4:55 pm

Marvin (Butch) Bennett

June 4, 1954 — May 23, 2023

Marvin “Butch” Lee Bennett, 68, left this life to be reunited with his wife in heaven on May 23, 2023. Butch was born on June 4, 1954 in Ponca City, Oklahoma to Ed and Thelma Bennett. He was the second oldest of 5 children. Growing up, he loved to fish with his Grandpa and Uncle Bosco. He found a love for riding motorcycles and enjoyed playing baseball with his friends that remained throughout his life.

He graduated from Marland High School in 1972. The following winter, he married his high school sweetheart, Cheryl Kay on January 13, 1973. Together they resided in Marland while Butch worked for the Marland CO-OP. They relocated to Ponca City in 1977 and Butch began his career for Locke Supply. In 1981, they settled in their home south of Ponca City with their 2 children, Jered and Heather.

Butch spent his time riding 3 wheelers on the Arkansas River with family and friends until he upgraded to an airboat in the early 1990s. In the mid-1990s, he purchased and created “Bennett State Park” as a place for leisure and relaxation. After years of waiting, he was blessed with 5 grandkids in 8 years whom he loved dearly. Butch enjoyed deer hunting, boating, fishing, and arrowhead hunting, but found a lot of peace just sitting around his campfire. Butch retired from Locke Supply in 2016 after 40 years of service. He was funny and easygoing and had many, many friends. The impact he left on his family is immeasurable.

Left behind to cherish his memory are his children Jered (Irenea) Bennett of Marland, and Heather Bennett Raffelson of Ponca City; grandchildren: Joseph Valentin, Kattie, Maelee, and Ethan Bennett, and Hannah Raffelson. His siblings: Sarah (David) Sober, Roy Bennett, and Tony (Ruby) Bennett. A few aunts and uncles, many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his wife Cheryl Bennett, parents Edward and Thelma, sister Joyce Taughtfest, as well as several aunts, uncles, cousins, and 2 nieces.

A viewing will be held on Monday, May 29, 2023, from 4 to 7 p.m. Graveside services will be held on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, 2 p.m., at Resthaven Memorial Park with Pastor Chris Short officiating. Arrangements are under the care of Grace Memorial Chapel.