(262) 653-0667
3016 75th Street, Kenosha, WI 53142
Walter Thomas “Tom” Schoenfeld passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 5, 2024 at the age of 73 while staying at Serenity Group Home in Kenosha, WI.
He is survived by his wife, Ruth Schoenfeld; his three children, Scott (Leslie) Schoenfeld, Mandy (Don) Taylor, and Leah (Matt) Mekemson; his mother, Lorraine Schoenfeld; His four sisters, Judi (Tom) Curtin, Sue (Bob) Diebold, Jean (Bruce) Apa, Mary Ann (Paul) Lebreck; along with 12 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. Also, survived by longtime friend/first wife Sue Chestnut. Tom is predeceased by his father, Walter Schoenfeld and his daughter, Cory Schoenfeld.
He was born on January 9, 1951, in Chicago, IL to Walter and Lorraine Schoenfeld. He graduated from Rolling Meadows High School in 1969, where the highlight of that time was having Ted Nugent as a classmate. Tom later spent six months in Texas at basic training and in 1971 was stationed in Tacoma, WA where he served in the United States Air Force. While in WA, Tom and first wife Sue welcomed a baby boy born September 25, 1973. Later moved back to Illinois to be near family. February 23, 1976, November 14, 1978, and January 19,1981 respectively, he welcomed his three beautiful daughters.
From a very young age music played a huge part in his life. Tom was well known for his drum solos at nightclubs, family parties and weddings. He also played in many bands over the years and thoroughly enjoyed every moment of being in a band. He also worked as a DJ for a country music station and also a DJ for many weddings. He also created multiple CD’s of his favorite songs sung by him to share with all. In later years, Tom worked as a custodian for Paris Grade School. He prided himself on a job well done and was loved by many people in that community. In recent years he found comfort in God and felt peace in knowing he would someday be reunited with his father and daughter.
His faith grew strong and while attending church he met Ruth Massman, Wertman and were married on January 18, 2014. They spent 10 wonderful years residing together in Racine, WI. Tom always had a good joke and could lift anyone’s spirits. He will be deeply missed by his friends, family and all that knew him.
Visitation for Tom will begin at 4:00pm Tuesday, June 25 at Journey Church, 10700 75th Street in Kenosha, with a memorial service to follow at 5:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to be made to the Lewy Body Dementia Association to further the research of Lewy Body Dementia.
Casey Family Options Funerals & Cremations
3016 75th Street Kenosha WI 53142
262-653-0667
www.caseyfamilyoptions.com
Mon - Fri: 8AM - 4PM
(262) 653-0667
3016 75th Street, Kenosha, WI 53142
Scott Schoenfeld says:
Love and miss you dad!!
Dawn Gross says:
We are so sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. I worked with Tom at Paris school and my girls all went there. You could always count on Tom when you needed help with something, needed to grab a last minute item left behind, or had to stay late for a project or PSO event. He was a great DJ and the kids loved him. He was always in a good mood. He will be missed.
Mike, Dawn, Breanna,Shelby, Kelsey Gross
Mark G. says:
Besides his musical prowess, Tom was also in his element at our big family camping weekends. Fond memories of him setting up the tents, grilling, telling stories and making sure the campfire was always roaring at night.
RIP
Jim Newberry says:
I worked with Tom at the Wolf. He was a great guy and truly enjoyed life. He made an impact on many lives. My thoughts are with his family. May he rest in peace!
Leah Holloway-Nilsen says:
I attended Paris while Tom worked there. He was such a joy to see every day and he always loved to talk with us students. Prayers of comfort to his family. Thanks for sharing him with us.
Keven Vinezeano says:
I have to say I am saddened in hearing of Tom passing. My heartfelt prayers and thoughts to each and everyone of his incredible family.
Tom was paramount in my musical endeavors. I was 9 years old when I asked him to teach me the fundamentals of being an accomplished drummer. I remember many days he inspired me to feel the music in my drum work, not just the mechanical parts of it. I thank God greatly for his musical knowledge, even at his young age of 13. Tom went on to be in a band called Nobody’s Business. And wow what a tremendous talent he became. We are lead singing drummers, as I still play today in a band. His influence was pivotal in my drumming knowledge today.
My love for Lorraine and all her family I’ve known since that time has grown throughout the years. They are truly a family of friends I’ll always thank God for being a part of as I grew up in our little town. I will say also, to everyone that knew Tom, he was a very kind soul. I pray that each and every one of you in the family and friends, open your hearts to God’s healing Grace at this time. And realize you had the honor of knowing such a passionate person for life, family & friends such as Tom.
Thanks again Tom for being patient with me in teaching me my beginning skills of a drummer.
Jon Lyons says:
As Chaplain for the American Legion Post 21 and the Sons of The American Legion Squadron 21 in Kenosha Wisconsin, I’d like to say thank you for your service and God bless you, your family, and your friends. You’re all in my prayers. Just remember he was a gift from God and knowing him was even a bigger gift. 🙏🏻🫡
Kathie & Bob Killebrew says:
Tom, so many beautiful memories & adventures. First concert was Mercy Me at First Assembly of Gof in Kenosha. You were hooked. Loved Christian music and loved the Lord.
We stayed friends for over 20 years, and was so honored when did the music for my wedding. Bob & I have lots if great memories, holidays, birthdays dinners, firepit chats, picnics. Good friend always. Remembering your journey with Ruth, your wedding, great, great memories.
Justine K says:
When I volunteered at Paris School Tom was always willing to help out with our extracurricular events … we particularly enjoyed when he would DJ the dances and the Panther Prowl. He’d have a smile on his face and a kind word for all the students. My condolences to his family.
Sue Chestnut says:
Tom, please say hi to my parents and “our angel” Cory.
XOXOXOXO
SUE……