Henry William "Hank" Schoenlein

Henry William “Hank” Schoenlein

October 4, 1932 - January 31, 2023

 

Hank Schoenlein, a long time Petaluma resident, passed away peacefully on January 31, 2023, at his home, in the presence of his family.

 

Hank was born and raised in Ferndale, Michigan. He was a graduate of Iowa State University and the University of California Berkeley, and a proud veteran Officer of the United States Marine Corps.

 

Hank is survived by Laila Schoenlein, his loving wife of 63 years; daughter Debbie Smith (Dan), of Santa Clara, CA, son Robert Schoenlein (Heather) of Greenbrae, CA, son Gary Schoenlein (Kris) of Bellevue, WA; grandchildren Danielle Smith, Braden Schoenlein, Grant Schoenlein (Shyanne), Gabriel Smith (Haley), Casey Schoenlein, Malcom Schoenlein, Ryan Schoenlein; and great granddaughter Ezra Schoenlein (Grant/Shyanne).

 

Following his tour in the Marines, which included service in Okinawa, Hank’s spirit of adventure led him from the Midwest to graduate school at U.C. Berkeley where he met Laila at the International House in 1957. They married in Petaluma in 1959. Hank gave over 30 years of dedicated service to the State of California as a Health Care Administrator and Social Worker. From his professional career, to community service, to bicycle touring with his buddies, Hank pursued all his interests with tremendous passion. He particularly loved to work on restoring many older homes in Petaluma, celebrating the labor far more than the finished product. Hank was always most comfortable in his work-stained t-shirt and jeans. He indeed had “Dirty Hands and Clean Soul.”

 

Hank’s greatest passion was for Laila, his soulmate and best friend. He felt blessed for their many years together – years of countless adventures and experiences. He especially loved engaging in and celebrating the lives and aspirations of their children and grandchildren, always with encouragement, enthusiasm and support. Being with his great granddaughter in his final year was a special joy for Hank.

 

Hank will be remembered as a wonderful family man, a man of character, and a joyous worker. He lived the creed of “Do unto others.”

 

A Life Celebration will be planned at a future date and announced to family and friends. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to Salvation Army or similar charity for those in need.