Rudolph C. Schonek

SCHONEK– Rudolph C. “Boots,” educator, philanthropist, businessman and church benefactor, 90, Johnstown, died Jan. 23, 2008, at the Lutheran Home. Born April 6, 1917, in Johnstown, son of the late Rudolph and Katherine (Hecker) Schonek. Preceded in death by infant brother, Willie; brothers, Adolph and Wilbur; and sister, Margaret A. Fry. Survived by wife, Geraldine M. (Lingenfelter) Schonek, Lutheran Home; sister, Katherine Warner, Newport, Pa; niece, Jacqueline, and husband, Mark Singel, Westmont; and numerous other nieces and nephews. U.S. Army Veteran of World War II, receiving a Good Conduct Medal and European African Middle Eastern Service Medal, with Bronze Star. Received honorary doctorate degree simultaneously with his wife at St. Francis University - only the second time in the 143 year history of St. Francis that honorary doctorate was conferred on a husband and wife. Member of Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church and recipient of 2007 President’s Award from Allegheny Lutheran Social Ministries. Member of American Legion; Elks;, Knights Templar; Portage Royal Arch Council, Chapter 195; Cambria Council 32, Cambria Lodge 278, F and AM Jaffa Shrine; and Royal Order of Jesters, Altoona Court 70. Rudolph Schonek was a major donor to St. Francis University. The endowments for the nursing and business programs in his and his wife’s name have provided tuition assistance for over 200 students. He was a member of Cambria County Transit Authority and a principal in the preservation of the Johnstown Inclined Plane. “Boots” coordinated the restoration effort for the Community Arts Center pond and countless other projects. “Boots” and his beloved wife and friend, Geraldine, traveled extensively and had numerous close friends who became family. He was a longtime member of the Westmont Area Retired Men’s Club (W.A.R.M. Club) and will be missed by the Eat N’ Park group. “Boots” befriended and was beloved by people in all walks of life, from national leaders to local shop owners and waitresses. Friends received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the Hindman Funeral Homes and Crematory Inc., 146 Chandler Ave. Funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday at Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church, Elknud Lane, the Rev. Robert Abarno officiating. Interment, Grandview Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Christ Lutheran Church, 337 Elknud Lane, Johnstown, Pa. 15905.