Richard Schoenemann

Richard “Rich” Schoenemann was born on August 25, 1943 in Chicago Heights to Helen DeFrank and Frederick Schoenemann. His family moved to Matteson where he attended grade school and he later attended high school at Rich East in Park Forest.

One of Rich’s proudest accomplishments was leading the Matteson American Legion Drill Team. The many trophies they received are still on display at the Matteson American Legion. Rich was always quick to recall the many accomplishments of his team.

Rich had a talent for building and fixing things, learning car mechanics from his father. He went to trade school at Washburne and became a plumber. Later he completed a course to become a certified welder. Rich’s early career led him to work on several high rises in Chicago- the John Hancock Building- Sears Tower. He often related stories of his adventures on the girders, though he admitted he was afraid of heights- but he had a job to do. In 1983 he started a job at St. James Hospital in Chicago Heights as a plumber. To Rich it was a dream come true. The harder the job the more he enjoyed it. While working there he met the gal that would become his life-long partner. Rich’s hobby was work - there was nothing he couldn’t fix or build. His great enjoyment in the summer was cutting grass on the riding mower. He entirely rehabbed an older John Deere riding mower and often rode it through town.

Rich is survived by his life-long partner Lori Prendergast, his son Rick, (Sharon) Schoenemann, two grandchildren Charles and Isabella, his brother Ron Schoenemann, and two nephews Bob (Ashley) Schoenemann and Ryan (Marie) Schoenemann. He was predeceased by his parents (Helen DeFrank and Frederick Schoenemann).