Ernest George Schoenback Obituary

October 17, 2017

Maria Salnik wrote a sympathy message

“Ernie Schoenback meant a great deal to all of us and touched many lives with his kindness and goodness. He especially touched mine, and has been my mentor, teacher, father figure, friend, and confidant for the past 24 years. Ernie taught me many valuable life lessons, like how to properly spit, how to choose culturally acceptable condiments for my hot dog as apparently mayo was not it in America, how to speak English and curse better than any other kids in my class, how to chicken fight, how to get over breakups, how to believe in myself, and how to pursue and achieve my dreams. Ernie was not born into riches but created the most abundant life for himself and truly valued his blessings and frequently expressed his gratitude. In fact, Ernie's last words to me were thank you. Thank you, Ernie. We are all here because you have blessed us with your wisdom and courage, and live on in our hearts and actions. You have made this world better and we will continue your legacy. I wanted to share some of my and others' favorite stories of Ernie. A few months after coming to the States, Ernie planned a 10th birthday party for me at the Hyatt hotel, inviting so many people that it felt more like a wedding. I remember taking presents home in large bags, feeling like Santa Claus. Ernie wanted for me to feel welcomed and loved even though I was away from the world that I knew. He was just like that, checking in, seeing if there was anything he could help with, and following through. Getting in trouble with Ernie was also pretty great. He wouldn't yell or lecture me but would sit me down and ask why I did what I did and whether I still thought it was a good idea. He would allow me to come to my own conclusions and correct the error in my mind, feeling supported and safe. Ernie was also fun! He led us to victory at the dance off at my school with his killer moves and light hearted spirit. He knew how to let loose and be free. He also accompanied me on my college visits, trying on new environments and exploring the country. He helped me buy my car, which I'm pretty sure actually cost the dealership money. He was ruthless, and even though I wasn't there to experience Ernie as a working executive, I could definitely see how he had achieved such success. Just observing him, how he was with people, how he cared, how he was a man of his word, how he was confident in himself and didn't need to BS anyone, taught me to value those qualities, to accept myself and feel like I too belonged in the world. Ernie cheered me on through the wonderful world of dating, and always told me that it will happen and I just need to be patient. And he was right. He lived to meet my fiancé and bless our union. He will be in our hearts as we become a family and will be one of the pillars on which our values are built. Ernie, you were incredible and will be so missed. Thank you soo much for choosing me to be a part of your life and everything you taught me. I love you and we all love you. Your son Eric also wanted to share one of his many favorite memories of you. He says, "I will never forget the winter of 81. I was assigned to the aircraft carrier USS Eisenhower. They held a father and son cruise and I invited dad. We went out for 3 nights and 4 days. He stood on the flight deck and was splashed when a couple 500 pound bombs were dropped next to the ship. He sat in the cockpit of one of the fighter jets, watched flight ops day and night and took thousands of pictures. It was one of the most exciting times of his life. Thank you Ernie for making all of these beautiful memories with us. Your body may no longer be here but your spirit lives on in us.”