Joseph Schoenholtz

On Tuesday December 25, 2018 Joseph Edward Schoenholtz of New Eagle, passed away at the age of 87.  He was surrounded by his family when he went to be with the Lord. Joe was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret Elizabeth Yanko Schoenholtz. He was also preceded by his brothers and sisters: Wesley Hines, Lovella Galiotto, Lois Burrows, Roy Schoenholtz, Loren Schoenholtz, and Joyce Ann Vernet. He is survived by his five children: Barbara Wood, Jane (Charles) Donaldson, Joseph (Dao) Schoenholtz, Paul (Benjamaporn) Schoenholtz, and Ethel (Gregory) Minkus. His grandchildren: Carl Donaldson, Kaitlyn Whitfield, Ashley McCombs, Benjamin Poroda, Sean Wood, Margaret and Elizabeth Schoenholtz. Joe is also survived by his seven great grandchildren.

Joe was born on December 12, 1931 in Belle Vernon, PA to Teemon and Isabelle Kennedy Schoenholtz.  On Joe’s sixteenth birthday, his mother tragically died in his arms on the way to the doctor. After that night, Joe decided to lie about his age and enlist in the army. He became a Master Sergeant of the 1st Cavalry/8th Combat Engineers BN. During his service, Joe was wounded in Korea and was awarded the Purple Heart along with many other medals and commendations. In 1954, he was hired by the Pennsylvania Railroad as a railroad conductor. Joe finally retired in 1998 and became active in the VA in Pittsburgh.  He was a 32nd Degree Mason at the Henry M. Phillips Lodge, Monongahela.

Joe had a passion for gardening and on a warm, sunny day, you would always know where to find him. He took great pride in growing his garden and teaching others to do the same. He loved growing tomatoes and one summer planted 100 tomatoes plants. Joe loved his family deeply and took joy in teaching his grandchildren new things. He will always be remembered for his wisdom, humor, and huge heart. Joe will be missed by so many, especially his family. His loved ones take comfort in knowing Joe is at peace and has finally been reunited with his loving wife.

Visitation will be held Thursday from 2-4 & 6-8 PM at the Parzynski Funeral Home & Cremations, Family Owned and Operated, 626 Broad Avenue, Belle Vernon 724-929-6183.  Funeral services will be held Friday at the Parzynski Funeral Home & Cremations at 11:00 AM with the Pastor Matthew Stabe of Grace Lutheran Church, Monongahela officiating.  Interment with Military honors will take place in Belle Vernon Cemetery.