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Donnellan Family Funeral Services

10045 Skokie Boulevard

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Michael Schoenhoft Obituary

Schoenhoft, Michael T. 59, of Glenview, IL passed away suddenly on Friday, June 8, 2012. He is survived by his loving wife, Vicky Coleman Schoenhoft; his beloved sons, Ryan Schoenhoft and Jeremy Schoenhoft; his devoted stepchildren, Robert Coleman (Renee Martin), Laura Coleman (Brian Brehart) and John Coleman (Tracy Distefano); his grandchildren, Robert Coleman III, Ryan Coleman, Lyla Brehart, and Emmaline Brehart; and his brothers, John (Maxine) Schoenhoft, Rob (Jan) Schoenhoft, Jim (Ginger) Schoenhoft and Chris (Suzie) Schoenhoft; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Ginny Schoenhoft; and by his sister, Rita Schoenhoft. Michael was born in St. Louis, MO and raised in Highland Park, IL. Michael's love of music started early and spanned the rest of his life. In grade school he began playing the bass where he and some of his friends started the band Meadow. During the 1960's and 70's he played in Symphonic Flights and then in Always. In the late 1970's through 1982, Michael was part of the disco group Ed Fogel's Cabaret Band where he toured worldwide. In the 1990's Michael and his brothers formed Straight Up. After they disbanded, he and his brothers still got together once a year for a jam session. In 1979 his brother Rob started Ancient Tree Furniture Restoration and Repair. When Michael wasn't touring with his band, he assisted Rob. In 1982, Michael took over the shop working as a refinisher while Rob took over on-site touch up work. As master refinishers with a passion for perfection, Michael and Rob brought Ancient Tree to prominence as one of the most respected and sought after restoration shops on the North Shore. Michael was a Bonsai expert and spent most of his spare time with his grandchildren. As someone who was always concerned about the needs of others, Michael was generous in lending helping hands whenever he was needed. He will be sorely missed but treasured in our hearts forever. Visitation Wednesday 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Donnellan Family Funeral Home, 10045 Skokie Blvd. at Old Orchard Rd. Skokie. Memorial Mass Thursday 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 1775 Grove St. Glenview, IL 60025. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Sr. Paulanne's Needy Family Fund, c/o OLPH. Info: 847/675-1990 or www.donnellanfuneral.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Jun. 11, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Schoenhoft

Not sure what to say?





Julie Roberts

June 17, 2012

Vicky, Rob and family. I am sorry to hear of your loss. It hurts a little worse when it's sudden, yet I hope that all of you will remember all your good and happy times, and that that will help you through this sad time.

Michele & Erik Strand

June 14, 2012

John & Maxine, Our thoughts are with you and your family.

Patty Walsh

June 14, 2012

Dear Vicky,
Heard about your loss through the Regina alumnae office. We are deeply sadden by your loss. Prayers from Florida to you and your family. Patty Valdenaire Walsh & Pattie Ward (RDHS '71)

Esther Tomlinson

June 14, 2012

To Michael's family,
A sudden loss like this will take sometime to deal with, but until then "May the Lord of peace himself give you peace constantly in every way." (2 Thessalonians 3:16)
May God provide you with the peace and comfort to endure the days ahead.

Michael's band in high school

Lee Nysted

June 13, 2012

Meadow, the band

Michael on his Fender bass

Lee Nysted

June 13, 2012

Once and forever ... always ... love

Al & Cheryl

June 13, 2012

Jim, Ginger and Family,
Our prayers and thoughts are with you at this sad time. We know that God will see you through and provide comfort to all of you.

Lauren Fernan

June 12, 2012

John and Family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I am thinking of your family and sending you healing thoughts and prayers.

Julie and Chris McMahon

June 12, 2012

Vicky,
We are so very sorry for your loss. We continue to think of you and your family and we pray you will feel God's comfort in the difficult days ahead. We are right next door if you need anything, so please don't hesitate to just knock on our door. We would be honored to help out.
With care, Julie and Chris McMahon (Corey, Mollie and Jimmy)

Harry & Beverly Fuller

June 12, 2012

Jim & Ginger-
Thank you for being there in our times of sorrow, I know that we hurt for you now, as you did for us then. Let God's healing love be yours for your whole family now in your sorrow. Beverly and I and the whole small group from Davenport Vineyard Church will be lifting you in prayer.
Harry & Beverly, Jesse, Hope and Jay and kids

LynnAnn Nysted-Thomas

June 12, 2012

I have so many wonderful memories of the Schoenhoft's house..always lively. Michael's smile is forever in my heart...love and peace...lynnann

Jane, Todd, Ian & Kevin McClarren

June 12, 2012

To ALL the Schoenhofts,

Our thoughts are with you in the times ahead. We have always felt like part of your family and are so sorry for your loss.

Jeff and Caroline

June 11, 2012

Jim and Ginger -
No words I could provide can give the comfort that you need at this time. Life is fleeting but memories are forever. The memories will help fill the emptiness that your heart now feels.

Rosie Nassal

June 11, 2012

It can be so hard to face the first year without your loved one, but the love of family and friends can carry you through.

Ted and Tricia Mathis

June 11, 2012

Rob and family,

Tricia and I want to express our deepest sympathy on the loss of your brother. We know the days ahead will be difficult and want you to know we're here for you. Don't hesitate to call if there is anything we can do.......anything.

Ted and Tricia Mathis

Showing 1 - 15 of 15 results

Memorial Events
for Michael Schoenhoft

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Donnellan Family Funeral Services

10045 Skokie Boulevard, Skokie, IL 60077

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