Richard John Schoonover

Richard John Schoonover, 90, of Mount Prospect, IL, passed away peacefully in his sleep, just shy of his 91st birthday. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, musician, and educator, Richard leaves behind a rich legacy of service, scholarship, music, and love.

Born to Charles and Lillian Schoonover, Richard was raised with a strong sense of discipline, curiosity, and a love of learning that would guide him throughout his life. He proudly served in the United States Army as a member of the 5th Army Band, where his deep love of music became not only a calling but a lifelong vocation.

Richard (Dick) pursued higher education with passion and purpose. He began his music studies at Hardin–Simmons University in Abilene, Texas, earning his undergraduate and masters degrees from DePaul University in Chicago, Illinois, and later a PhD in music education from Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois. His career as an educator and musician touched countless lives, inspiring students and audiences alike with his dedication, knowledge, and creativity.

He was married for 66 years to the love of his life, Joyce Jean Schoonover (Joy), who survives him. Together, they built a family grounded in love, learning, and adventure.

Richard is also survived by his five children:

● Rick, partner Colleen, children Nicholas and Amanda

● Greg, spouse Lisa, child Ava

● Cherie, spouse Jim, children Jennifer, Eric, and Daniel

● Bob, spouse Angie, child Siara, grandchildren Tavin, Zoe, and Jaxson; child Brooke, grandchild Westin

● Bill, spouse Shelley, children Jess and Sydney

● Josephine Schoonover, daughter-in-law

Dick was a proud grandfather and great-grandfather, all of whom brought him immense joy and carried forward his spirit of curiosity and kindness.

A lifelong traveler, Dick believed in the value of exploring new places and cultures, a passion he passed on to his children and grandchildren. Whether through road trips, international adventures, or family outings, he encouraged those around him to see the world with open eyes and open hearts. He was charming and charismatic and loved to make people laugh.

Dick’s life was filled with music, scholarship, devotion to family, a genuine humor, and unwavering integrity. His memory will live on in the stories we share, the lessons he taught, and the music he loved.

Memorial Mass will be held Saturday, August 9, 2025 at 1:00pm at St. Thomas Becket Catholic Church, 1321 N. Burning Bush Lane, Mount Prospect, Illinois 60056. An informal Celebration of Life (open house) will be held at the family home from 2:00pm-ish to 5:00pm, 1706 N. Aspen Drive, Mount Prospect, Illinois 60056.

No flowers please. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Alzheimer's Association at https://www.alz.org/?form=FUNDHYMMBXU