Mary Pat Schoen

Mary Pat Schoen, mother of eleven, grandmother of forty-one and great grandmother of nine, passed away at age 86 on Sunday, April 21, 2013 in her home surrounded by family. Mary Pat was born in Toledo, Ohio on February 16, 1927 to Ted and Mary Gerken. She attended Rosary Cathedral School, St. Ursula Academy and Marygrove College. This "Gerken Girl" caught the heart of Jim Schoen just before he entered the service. They were married in 1947 for 49 years. Mary Pat had a simple grace and varied interests. This was shown in her ability to pair her trademark pearls with khakis; her love for competitive sports and her gentleness with children; her appreciation for the commotion of family and her love of classical music; her love of the outdoors and the puff of a cigar. Mary Pat was a marvelous cook and enjoyed entertaining. She played bridge for years with a close group of high school friends and was a longtime volunteer for Meals on Wheels. She cherished memories of trips to Rome and meeting with the Pope. Mary Pat was known for her calmness, kindness and warmth. She was a wonderful wife, mother and grandmother, putting her family first. A true friend, light hearted and sincere. As Mary Pat went about her day, she often took time to pray the rosary. She treasured her Catholic faith. Her way was peaceful and strong in purpose. We will miss her as we continue on our journey toward eternal life. Mary Pat was preceded in death by her husband, James M. Schoen; her son, Stephen; her parents, Theodore and Mary Gerken and her sister, Elizabeth "Betty" Newcomer. She is survived by her children, James (Susan), Carol (Gary) Barnes, Clifford, Lawrence, Susan (Christopher) Anderson, Charles (Catherine), Terrence (Janet), Patricia (Daniel) McCartney, Joseph (Marcia) and David (LeAnn); her grandchildren; her sister, Marcia (Robert) Sullivan and her brother, Theodore (Sharon) Gerken. The family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to Mary Pat’s caregivers, Jeannine VanVorce and Beth Gandy , for their exceptional kindness and compassion. Services will be private per Mary Pat's request. Donations may be made to John Paul II Medical Research Institute, 540 E Jefferson St., Suite 105 Iowa City, IA 52245 or Our Lady of Lourdes Hospitality Kitchen, 6149 Hill Ave., Toledo, OH 43615.

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Mary Pat Schoen

February 16, 1927 - April 21, 2013