Henry W. Schiminske

AUBURN | Henry W. Schiminske, 87, of Auburn, took his journey to heaven on Saturday, May 2, 2015 at Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse, surrounded by his loving family.

Hank, the son of the late Henry and Mary Schiminske, was a lifelong resident of Auburn. He was a graduate of West High School and proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps. Hank was an accomplished skilled tradesman, having initially worked for Jay Sawyer Plumbing and Heating. He was a supervisor of maintenance at New Process Gear in Syracuse, retiring in 1987. Not one to remain idle, Hank spent the next 20 years employed by Cayuga Parks and Trails at Emerson Park.

Hank's greatest joy in life was his family, on which he placed his prime focus. He took great pleasure for many years camping in his RV, alongside family. Possessing an inquisitive nature, Hank also enjoyed travel, both stateside and abroad. He loved his time spent in Florida during the winter months, to visit family. He also found his many jaunts with the Springport Seniors and Melrose Seniors to be rewarding. Hank had a keen interest in genealogy, which led him to spend many hours exploring his German and Irish roots. He was always available to be of service to others, as he was a "jack of all trades."

Hank is survived by his wife of 67 years, Jean D'Antonio Schiminske; his five children and their spouses, Cynthia (Fred) Prentice, Gregory Schiminske and Robin Emmi, Judith Schiminske and Tom D'Amire, Arthur (Cynthia) Schiminske, and Jeffrey (Lisa) Schiminske. Also surviving are grandchildren, Christopher (Kristen) Prentice, Kari (Kevin) Cunningham, Jonathan Schiminske, Jessica Schiminske, Lindsay Schiminske, and Amy Schiminske; along with great-grandchildren, Lauren and Katherine Prentice, Delaney and Conor Cunningham, and Gabriella Schiminske.

Calling hours will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Pettigrass Funeral Home, 196 Genesee St., Auburn. Services will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday at the funeral home.

Contributions in Henry's name may be made to the Wounded Warrior's Project, 4899 Belfort Road, Suite 300, Jacksonville, FL 32256.

Our dad and grandfather taught us many valuable life lessons, but the one that truly stands out is to always have a positive attitude, irregardless of the circumstances. May his caring and gentle spirit live on in each one of us. We will miss him but know he is still with us! We hope you enjoyed your life's journey Dad, as much as we enjoyed you!