Jack Schoonover Obituary

JUDGE JACK R. SCHOONOVER

June 10, 2013

Judge Jack R. Schoonover, 78, of Fort Myers, FL passed away at his home on Monday, June 10, 2013. He was born July 23, 1934 in Winona, MN, the son of Richard and Elizabeth Schoonover. After serving in the US Air Force, he attended Winona State University, and later graduated from the University of Florida Law School. In 1965, he married Ann Marie Benson, the love and light of his life.

His legal career began in the practice of Wotitzky, Wotitzky & Schoonover. Concurrent with private practice, he also served at various times as School Board Attorney, City Judge, City Attorney for Punta Gorda and State Attorney. Later he began the practice of Schoonover, Olmsted & Schwarz. As his career progressed, he felt drawn to the Judiciary, an occupation that he found was more of a calling than a job. He served as a Circuit Court Judge with the 20th Judicial Circuit and then as a District Court Judge with the 2nd DCA (District Court of Appeals), having served at one time as its Chief Judge.

Following his retirement, he continued to work as a Senior Judge, from Collier County to Sarasota and all points in between. This he did for two very simple reasons; he still had a great passion for the courtroom and he loved the people he felt so privileged to work alongside; from his fellow judges to the court reporters and bailiffs. He continued in this role until late in January when he suffered a career-ending stroke and heart attack.

His family includes a son, Wayne Benson, his wife Chris and their three sons, Matthew, Daniel and Adam; a brother Richard Schoonover and his wife Roy, as well as nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his wife of 43 years, a son, Jack, Jr. and his parents.

Services will be held Monday, June 17, 2013 at 10am at St. Cecilia Catholic Community in Fort Myers. The family will receive friends at church from 9am-10am. Cremation will follow. In lieu of flowers, if you are married, it would honor my father's memory to do something extraordinary and unexpected for your spouse; if you're not married, then for someone you care very deeply for.

Please visit kays-ponger.com to leave the family condolences and to sign the online guestbook. Kays-Ponger & Uselton Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Punta Gorda Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Published by The News-Press on Jun. 14, 2013.
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I worked the courtroom with Judge Schoonover when he was a Senior Judge in the 20th Judicial Circuit, Lee County, FL. He was always such a pleasure to be around, especially so when he was on the bench. He was always firm, but courteous with the attorneys. I remember that he had a habit of sustaining objections even before they were made. Either the State or the Defense attorney would say something that would be cause for an objection, and Judge Schoonover would say, "Objections sustained" before the other attorney could even say "Objection." These are the kinds of stories that are so memorable and a joy to share with family. Thank you for sharing Jack Schoonover with the rest of us. He was a blessing to his profession.

Deputy Robert E Rommel

Coworker

June 8, 2019

Though I Didn't know you I was always proud to say my fathers brother Jack is a judge in Florida. We loved many of the same people but only new such a small amount about each other. Here in Minnesota your brother and nephews know that now you are with God.

God bless you uncle Jack

Greg

June 22, 2013

One of the best judges, lawyers or individuals I ever met. Thank you, Your Honor, for the pleasure of knowing you.

Michael B. Weinacht

June 21, 2013

One of the best judges to ever sit on the bench. I learned so much from him. He will be terribly missed.

Elizabeth Fitzgerald

June 18, 2013

Be at peace with The Lord, Jack.

June 16, 2013

I worked many trials in Judge Schoonover's courtroom as a Deputy Sheriff in Lee County. The consummate professional. High on the competence ladder . . . in fact, the top rung. Knowledgeable to a fault. He also had a tremendous sense of humor and liked to use it at surprising moments during trials and during recesses. He deeply grieved the loss of his wife who he was totally devoted to. I miss him a lot.

Deputy Robert E Rommel, Ret.

June 14, 2013

A good & loyal friend who we will miss, & is now with his beloved Ann. Ron & loretta kays

June 14, 2013

Love you.

Josephine Gagliardi

June 14, 2013

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