George Michael "Mike" Schoner

George Michael Schoner "Mike" age 78 years, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December
12, 2024. Mike was born May 5, 1946 to Patricia (Patsy) and George Schoner, Jr. He grew up in
Greenhills, Ohio with his four siblings, Marie (Mike) Ryan, Greg Schoner, Patti Wagner and the
late Victoria Husman, along with his bonus sibling, Lee (Bobby) Kearns Bonhaus. Mike was the
dear uncle to Jon Wagner, Rachel (Scott) Cameron, Ryan (Susan) Wagner, Beth (Ian) Sroufe,
Trista (Tom) Connor, Dacia Wood, Kayce (Craig) Hamilton, Tracee (Michael) King, Danielle
(Patrick) Curran, Joey Kearns and 23 grand-nieces and nephews.
Mike is preceded in death by his loving parents, Patricia and George Schoner, his aunt, Betty
Berninger, his grand-nephew Christian Thomas, and his sister, Vicki Husman.
Mike attended Our Lady of the Rosary grade school. He graduated from Roger Bacon High
School in 1964. He received a Bachelors of Science in Psychology from the University of
Dayton in 1968, minoring in Physics.
Mike had a deep desire to make a difference in the world, aspiring to serve in the Peace Corps
in Ghana. However, his path changed when he was drafted while awaiting acceptance into the
Peace Corps. True to his peaceful nature and compassionate heart, Mike chose a three-year
enlistment that allowed him to support others by providing vital psychiatric care to returning
veterans in Washington and Colorado. This work was profoundly challenging, as Mike
witnessed the deep trauma experienced by the veterans he cared for. The weight of their stories
and struggles left a lasting impression on him, a testament to his empathetic nature.
Mike loved watching sports, especially with his brother Greg and nephews Ryan and Jon. His
love of the Cincinnati Reds began in his youth while attending games at Crosley Field, and
continued through the Big Red Machine. He was especially fond of Morgan, Robinson and
Bench. Mike also loved the Bengals and pretty much any professional or college sport.
Mike enjoyed traveling and the outdoors. During grade school, he spent many nights sleeping
in Winton Woods with friends. He took multiple cross-country trips with friends and siblings,
typically sleeping under the stars. He traveled to Mexico for a month and spent two months in
Europe with a friend. His adventurous and free spirit were evident, and during this time, the
bonds he shared with his family grew even stronger.
Mike's brilliance and kindness shone in every aspect of his life, from his academic achievements
to his artistic pursuits. He was a gifted painter, creating works that reflected his deep sensitivity
and creativity. An avid photographer, Mike had an eye for capturing life's beauty in unique and
meaningful ways. His passion for music was equally inspiring, as he recently dedicated himself
to refining his guitar skills with a new guitar and amplifier. Mike also expressed himself through
heartfelt poetry, crafting words that touched the soul. His talents and love for the arts left an
indelible mark on everyone who knew him.
Mike shared a special and heartwarming bond with his grand-nephew, Tye. Their connection
began when Tye was just a baby and recently grew stronger as Mike's health faded, the two
cherishing quiet mornings together over bowls of Wheaties. Tye's joyful exclamations of "I love
you, Mike!" were a constant source of love and comfort during Mike's final days, surrounding
Mike with warmth and affection.
Mike deeply loved his family, and that love was wholeheartedly returned. His warm smile and
calming presence brought joy and comfort to every gathering, making each moment brighter.
Though he is no longer with us, his spirit lives on in our hearts, guiding us and reminding us of
the love and light he shared so generously.
Visitation will be held at Neidhard Young Funeral Home, 7401 Hamilton Avenue, Mt. Healthy on
Saturday, December 21 from 9:00-10:15 AM followed by Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of
the Rosary Church, Greenhills at 11 AM. Burial will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery with
Military Honors. Memorial donations may be directed to the Peace Corps or Wounded Warrior
Project.
Time (a poem by George Michael 'Mike' Schoner)
Time, you are a cruel invention,
Cold and heartless, never lending.
You know not our best intention,
Yet ruthlessly you seal our ending.
Why do you flow so uninvolved;
What is your blind compulsion?
You are quick-sand in an hourglass,
From below you receive your call.
Foreclosing on an ageless lass,
Her lease still unsigned, down you fall.
What makes you go so quickly;
Why do you always rush?
Ticking and tocking, never stopping,
Unable to see what you do,
You are somebody's henchman robbing
From us the things that seem so few.
Why do you treat us so;
What have we done to you?
G.M.S.