Robert E. Schoemaker

Robert E. Schoemaker, 96, formerly of Whitehall, passed away Monday, August 4, 2025 at St. Luke's Hospice House, Bethlehem. He was the husband of Rita M. (Mehalick) Schoemaker, with whom he shared nearly 70 years of marriage. Born in Kernsville, he was the son of the late Walter L. and Verna (Miller) Schoemaker. He was a member of St. Francis of Assisi R. C. Church, Allentown as well as the Knights of Columbus Council #528, where he was a Fourth Degree Knight. Before retiring in 1991, he worked 35 years for Bethlehem Steel as a Crane Operator, and prior he assisted with the family business, Kerns Grist Mill. He was an Army Veteran, serving in Germany during the Korean War and held membership with the American Legion Howard Peter Post 576, Allentown. Mostly, he will be remembered for his love of vegetable gardening, dancing and antique cars, especially driving his Model A. Survivors: wife Rita; sons David M. and his wife Lucy of LaCenter, WA, Mark M., and his wife Michele of New Tripoli; 4 grandchildren Sarah, Erika, Matthew, Luke; 4 great grandchildren Aurorua, Lyra, Gabriella, Savannah. He was predeceased by his son Robert M., brothers Roger, Richard and Donald and sister Irene Holtzhafer. Mass of Christian Burial: 10:00 AM, Thursday, August 7 at St. Francis of Assisi R. C. Church, 1046 W Cedar St, Allentown, PA 18102. Calling hour will begin at 9:00 AM. Memorials can be considered USO, (United Service Organizations) which provides support to service members and their families.