Obituary of Steven D. Schoonmaker

Steven D. Schoonmaker of Spencer passed away on September 7, 2015 at the age of 66. He grew up in Accord, NY, where his family owned Valley Gardens, Inc. He took over the nursery from his parents, Donald and Doris Schoonmaker, and ran it for nearly 20 years. At age 40, he decided to pursue his passion for education and returned to school for his master’s degree, and went on to become a guidance counselor and school administrator. He served as Superintendent of Willsboro Central School District and Spencer-Van Etten Central School District. Steve retired in 2011, and has dedicated his time to enjoying his grandchildren, fishing, golfing, serving the parish at St. Mark’s, and yelling at the Mets, Giants, and Nets on TV. He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Diane Schoonmaker; son and daughter-in-law, Jason & Penny Schoonmaker; daughter and son-in-law, Tami & Paul Bogausch; four grandchildren, Jack & Caitlin Schoonmaker and Cassie & Joseph Bogausch; mother, Doris Schoonmaker; sister, Beverly Alfeld; nephew, Tim Alfeld; niece and her husband, Kim & Jon Sterba; and many extended family and friends. Services will be held on Friday, September 11, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 17 Main St, Candor, NY 13743 with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to St. Mark’s Church or the Steven D. Schoonmaker Memorial Scholarship at Spencer-Van Etten High School. For scholarship donations please make check payable to Inspire and mail to Spencer-Van Etten High School, c/o Debbie Frisbee, 16 Dartts Crossroad, Spencer, NY 14883. Condolences may be made to Steve’s family at www.emfaheyfuneralhome.com.