Memorial
Vern V. Schoneman, 94, of Cedar Rapids, formerly of rural Center Point, passed away Thursday June 18, 2015, surrounded by family. Visitation will be from 4:30-7:00 p.m. on Wednesday at Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home. Vern’s services will be at 11:00 a.m. Thursday at Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories.
Vern is predeceased by his loving wife, Jean, who passed away February 8, 2015. They were married for 68 years and their connection was so strong that Vern is joining her after only four months.
Surviving Vern are his children, Mark (Sandi) Schoneman, of rural Center Point and Mary (Vaughn) Ehret of Cedar Rapids, his granddaughter, Dr. Sonya Ehret Woolsey and her husband LCDR Aaron Woolsey, as well as their three children: Landon, Vallie and Marlee. Survivors also include Vern’s cherished sister, Beuna Zeman, also surviving are many nieces and nephews and special nieces, Jeanette Hamilton and Joyce Wright.
Vern was born January 4, 1921, in Britt, Iowa, to Alma and Vallie Schoneman. He moved to Cedar Rapids when he was 16 years old and graduated from McKinley High School. Vern enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1942 and served 40 months (without a furlough) in the 2nd Marine Division in the South Pacific Islands of Tinian, Gilbert, and Marianas. He was a Sharpshooter and Heavy AA Gun Crewman. Vern kept in close contact with his fellow Marines throughout the years and he never missed the annual Marine Reunion. A USMC flag flies proudly in Vern’s yard and the American flag is displayed throughout his home, showing his deep patriotism.
When returning home to Cedar Rapids, he met the love of his life, Jean Trefz, at Danceland and they were married August 31, 1947 by Jean’s brother, The Rev. Dr. Edward Trefz. They bought their farm in rural Center Point and raised their two children, Mark and Mary. Vern farmed and was employed by Rockwell Collins for 34 years. With the soil in his blood, he loved farming and took pride in raising large, prized vegetables that he cheerfully shared with friends and family. He grew beautiful flowers to make his home a place of beauty.
Vern loved all kinds of sports. He was an excellent marksman, ice skater, snow skier and loved to mushroom hunt. But most of all, he was an amazing fisherman. Vern and Jean traveled to the Arctic Circle to fish and every year would fish in Ear Falls, Canada-the resort even named their cabin the “Vern and Jean” cabin. Vern and Jean enjoyed traveling, visiting all fifty states and abroad, including World War II museums. He was a mall-walker and an avid Hawkeye fan. Vern and Jean were members of Westminster Presbyterian Church for more than 60 years.
Vern will be greatly missed. He was a loyal and loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Vern opened his home and his heart to family and friends, including family dinners, celebrations, and vacations-all were welcomed and appreciated. Our family and the world has lost a person of unwavering ideals, patriotism, and love.
Family extends a special thanks to Lee, at Garnett place, Dr. Lancaster and his nurse Rhonda, of Center Point, for their many years of knowledge, comfort, excellent care, and friendship they gave to Vern. We also extend a special thank you to “Boston Joe”- your kindness, humor and friendship will always be remembered fondly.
Memorials may be directed to Westminster Presbyterian Church in memory of Vern.