He was born July 29, the son of the late Walter Sr. and his mother Rosemary, who resides in Florida.
Schoenknecht grew up in Union, New Jersey, graduated from Seton Hall Preparatory School, and was a long time resident of Westfield, New Jersey.
A pioneer in the computer field, he had a long career as a systems administrator for mainframe computer installations which included stints for IBM, Beneficial Finance, Prudential, Sealand, Nabisco, and AIG. In addition, he worked for the robotics data storage innovator, Storage Tek. Later in life he added massage therapy to his talents, with his inspiration to help cancer patients.
Schoenknecht, was known for his quick wit and sense of humor. He called himself an "old soul," and is known for being a nice guy, a super kind gentleman, who did everything from taking his stepsons camping on Cub Scout events to becoming ordained to officiate the wedding ceremony for his daughter Kelly.
His passions included cooking and every St. Patrick's Day he invited the whole family for corned beef and cabbage. He loved classic Volkswagon Beetles and often showed off his own 1971 model. He was a supporter of the New Jersey Festival Orchestra, as well as, a former member of CMG (Computer Measurement Group) and AMTA (American Massage Therapy Association).
He is survived by his mother Rosemary, devoted wife Kimberly; his children Victoria, Jim Jr., Kelly and Kristen; stepsons Erick, Chandler, and Kyle; five grandchildren plus his siblings Walter, Eileen, and Thomas.
A private, graveside memorial service will be held August 8th.
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