HERBERT HENRY BOENIG

Herbert “Chub” Boenig, age 90.  Beloved and devoted husband of Yolanda (nee Blanchard) for 69 years. Loving Dad of Darlene Zakrajsek (Kenneth) and Bonnie Boenig (Jeff Dombek). Cherished grandfather of Brian Zakrajsek, Jennifer Zakrajsek, Jessica Zakrajsek and Abbey Boenig-Dombek. Preceded in death by 7 brothers and sisters: William Boenig, Jr. (Theresa) Fred Boenig (Charlotte), Everett Boenig, Margaret Roethel (Conrad), Alma Blankenfeld (Otto), Dolores LaChappelle (Clovis) and Lucy Theroux (Joseph). He was the special uncle to many nieces and nephews.

Chub was born and raised in the small town of Versailles, Connecticut where he met his childhood sweetheart, Landa. He joined the Army in 1950 and learned that he was going to be assigned with the Army Medical Corp stationed in the thick of the Korean War. He and Landa got engaged and married on February 6, 1951 just a few days prior to him shipping out for Korea. He was honorably discharged from the Army and awarded Korean Service and Bronze Service Star medals. He was proud of his service and demonstrated unwavering love and respect for his country throughout his life.

Chub was a quiet, hardworking and dedicated family man who made certain those he loved were well cared for and happy. He was kind and generous, always ready to lend a hand or help others. He embraced and valued people, he was optimistic and always quick with an encouraging word or positive outlook.

He and Landa made a big, life-changing decision in 1961 to take over a small grocery store in Occum, Connecticut. They worked side by side for over 26 years to become a prominent and well-respected business in the community. He was honored by the Occum Volunteer Fire Department for his kindness and generosity in donations to special events and supporting the firefighters with food and beverages while they were out on calls fighting fires.

After retiring from the store, he and his wife made the decision to move to Ohio in 1993 to be close to their daughters and their families. Over the years, he fully participated in his grandchildren’s lives, attending school, sports and music recitals, giving rides to and from school and to after school activities (Papa’s Taxi) and providing unconditional love, support and inspiration. He loved all kinds of music especially country, gospel and polkas and made the best buttered popcorn. He always had dishes of candy which he offered to every visitor, caregiver and delivery person who entered his home.

Chub died peacefully at home surrounded by family and things he loved the most. Contributions are requested to Cleveland Clinic Hospice, 6801 Brecksville Rd., Suite 10, Independence, OH 44131