Edward James Schoener

Edward James “Archie” Schoener, a lifelong resident of Dedham, passed away on Monday, October 20, 2025, at the West Roxbury Veterans Administration Hospital. He was 81.

Born in Boston on August 25, 1944, Edward was the son of Herman T. and Mary Elizabeth (Kennedy) Schoener. He grew up in Dedham’s Oakdale neighborhood and graduated from Dedham High School in 1963. In 1965, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving proudly as a photographer for 20 years until his honorable discharge in 1985. A Vietnam War veteran, Edward was a longtime member of the VFW Post 2018 in Dedham, where he enjoyed playing cards with friends. A true patriot, he deeply loved his country and supported many veterans’ causes.

Edward was an avid football fan and a lifelong rock & roll enthusiast—especially the Rolling Stones. A familiar face at the Dedham Diner, he cherished the camaraderie of the staff who treated him like family. One of his favorite memories was spending summer weekends at Lake Nipmuc in Mendon, swimming and laughing with his beloved cousins.

Edward’s favorite holiday was Christmas, which he loved spending with his grandchildren and always made it special for them; he was affectionately known as “Grampy Claus”. He cherished gatherings with family and friends, reminiscing about the good old days. He is survived by his daughter, Colleen, and her husband, Justin, of Dedham; his grandchildren, Ronan and Ada; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was the brother of Donald Young, Thomas Schoener, and Susanne Schoener.

Visiting hours will be held Thursday, October 30th from 10 am to noon at the Folsom Funeral Home, 87 Milton Street, Dedham with a funeral service at noon in the funeral home. Interment with military honors will follow at Brookdale Cemetery in Dedham. A reception will take place at the American Legion Post 18 in Dedham. All family and friends are welcome. In lieu of flowers donations to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306, or online at T2T.org (http://t2t.org/), are appreciated.

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