Thomas "Tom" Edwin Schoener Jr.

Thomas (Tom) Schoener Jr., beloved husband, father, papaw, brother and friend, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2025, in Pickerington, Ohio. He was 75 years old. Tom was born on May 21, 1949, in Massillon, Ohio, and moved to Columbus with his family in 1956 at the age of seven.

A proud graduate of Columbus West High School, Tom excelled academically and was an active member of the school’s basketball team. His passion for music was also evident as he participated in choir, operettas, and played bass guitar in a local garage band.

After graduating from West, Tom pursued higher education at The Ohio State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education and Chemistry in 1971. During his time at OSU, Tom developed a lifelong love for the Ohio State Marching Band and OSU’s sports teams. He remained a devoted football season ticket holder and was a proud lifetime member of the President’s Club at Ohio State.

Tom's professional journey began as a science teacher at Grove City High School, where he inspired students for two years. His passion for education, particularly in science, motivated him to encourage students to not only excel academically but to grow as individuals.

After leaving teaching, Tom shifted to the private sector, working as a chemical engineer at Ashland Chemical in Columbus. During his career at Ashland, Tom pursued additional studies to become a research chemist, earning straight A’s. His work contributed to a registered U.S. patent related to a product he helped develop for Ashland. Tom’s expertise in paints and resins became highly regarded, leading to his recruitment by the Hanna Paint Company. He later moved to Birmingham, Alabama, for a short period before returning to Ashland Chemical, where he spent the remainder of his career.

Beyond his professional life, Tom had a wide range of interests. He was a proud member of the Columbus Buick Club and owned several vintage Buicks, including a 1960 Buick Invicta convertible, with which he won numerous car show awards. Tom also had a passion for softball, playing on various teams throughout his life, including in over-50, over-60, and over-70 leagues. His love of sports and camaraderie was matched only by his enthusiasm for motorcycling. Tom enjoyed many memorable motorcycle trips, including a harrowing experience in Key West, Florida, when Hurricane Katrina passed through the Keys. Another highlight was a cross-country trip down Route 66 with his wife, Linda, which became a cherished memory.

Tom’s love of collecting memorabilia spanned a variety of interests, from Davy Crockett and Hopalong Cassidy to vintage vinyl records and Ohio State sports memorabilia. He spent many enjoyable hours antiquing with Linda to expand his collection, which he proudly displayed throughout their home.

Above all, Tom was a devoted family man. He was a loving "Papaw" to his grandchildren, Hannah, Joshua, Joanna, and Benjamin, with whom he enjoyed countless hours of quality time. Tom’s home was a place where his grandchildren always felt welcome, loved, and cherished.

Jesus Christ was Tom's Lord and Savior. Even saying in his final hours that he was ready to go home. He was a lifelong follower of Christ and a dedicated member of the Hilliard United Methodist Church, where he served in youth ministry, led Bible studies, and sang in the praise team. His faith was a cornerstone of his life and guided him through both challenges and blessings. During his time at Grace Fellowship Church in Pickerington, Tom was an active participant in a men’s Bible study group. His faith and the love he shared with others were a defining part of his legacy.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife of 17 years, Linda Schoener; children Jennifer (Francis) Deck and Matthew (Amanda) Nofzinger; grandchildren Hannah and Joshua Deck, Joanna and Benjamin Nofzinger; brother Mike (Martie) Schoener; brothers-in-law Craig (Melody) Weaver and Roger (Cindy) Weaver; nieces and nephews Brittany (Brandon) West, Scott Weaver, Christina (Ralph) Likens, Dylan (Laura) Weaver, Dustin (Samantha) Weaver, and Grace (Luke) Petelin; cousins Ken (Kris) West and Gary (Jean Ann) West; and a host of other family, friends, and loved ones.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Sr. and Dorothy Schoener; his father and mother-in-law, Melvin and Dorothy Weaver; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

In accordance with Tom’s wishes, private family services will be held. Kauber-Fraley Funeral Home is honored to assist with the arrangements.

Tom’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His legacy of faith, love, and joy will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of crossing paths with him. Even though we are deeply sad that he is no longer on this earth with us, we are overjoyed that he is with the Lord.

Until we meet again.