Longtime Trego County resident, John J. Schoenberger, age 81, passed away, Friday, September 8, 2017 at Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital, WaKeeney.  He was born in Ellis, October 21, 1935, the son of Alex and Rosie (Stecklein) Schoenberger.

John was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army.  He was an avid outdoorsman.  A perfect day in his world was a day of hunting, fishing, and just enjoying nature, especially on or near Cedar Bluff north shore cabin area.  John worked in floor covering for 28 years, until retirement.  He was known for his selfless giving for kids' fishing events like the annual fishing derby at Cedar Bluff North Shore Cabin area.  He will be dearly missed by family and friends.

Survivors include two brothers, Julius (Karen) of Hays, and Robert (Stella) of Aurora, Colorado; four sisters, Irene Herrman of Hays, Eleanor (Leo) Pachal of Aurora, Betty Schoenberger of Aurora, and Rose (Rich) Rupp of Buckeye, Arizona; and numerous nieces and nephews.  John was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, William, Clarence "Clem", Wilmer, and Junior; and a brother-in-law, Gilbert Herrman.

Graveside funeral service will be 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, September 13, 2017 at Kansas Veterans' Cemetery, WaKeeney.  Military honors will be provided by Ft. Riley Honor Guard.

Visitation will be Tuesday evening from 5 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home in WaKeeney.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Trego Hospital Endowment Foundation.  Donations to the foundation may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 North 12 ^th Street, WaKeeney, KS 67672.