Heini Schoenhals 1928-2016

Heini Schoenhals, age 88, was born on February 25, 1928 to Leonhard and Maria (Schnebele) Schoenhals in Rohrbach, Germany. He passed into his eternal home on March 11, 2016. Heini was baptized in April 1943 and became a member of the Sembach Mennonite Church.

Heini grew up in a singing family, with their mother playing the pump organ. The siblings also played recorders and brass instruments together.

After World War II, Heini enjoyed going to Mennonite youth meetings and retreats in southern Germany. That's also where he met his future wife, Liesel Guth. They were married on December 30, 1953 and just celebrated their 62nd anniversary.

In 1949 Heini joined the first MCC trainee (visitor exchange) group, spending 7 months in Kalona, Iowa and 4 months in Archbold, Ohio. He enjoyed his time here very much but never dreamed of returning. Yet God had a very special plan: in 1954, Heini and his young wife followed a call to come to Archbold to work at Hickory Grove farms, which opened the door for him to become a farmer. He retired from active farming in 1997 but still enjoyed driving tractor whenever he was asked. After that he became a woodworker, making many beautiful pieces for family and for charity auctions.

After arriving in Archbold, Heini and Liesel became members at Central Mennonite Church, where he was very active as a song leader, elder, and Sunday School teacher for many years. In addition, he served in migrant ministry and at the Maumee Youth Center. Heini enthusiastically appreciated the many friendships and connections he made in this community and wherever he went across the country and the world.

Heini was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Eugen and Hans Schoenhals, and sister, Ilse Schoenhals Bachmann Funck. He is survived by his wife, Liesel, daughter Ruth Weaver in Portland, OR, sons Walter (Joy) Schoenhals in Archbold, Gerald (Chris) Schoenhals in Archbold, and Mark (Sarah) Schoenhals in Thailand, along with 10 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

Heini always enjoyed having his family and friends around him, and especially cherished singing a few songs together before parting. Now we know he is joining the heavenly chorus.

Memorial Services will be held on Tuesday at 11AM at the Central Mennonite Church with Pastors Dave Elkins, Bill Holsopple and Dale Wyse officiating. Interment will precede at 9:30 AM Tuesday in the Pettisville Cemetery. Friends may call at Central Church from 3-8 PM on Monday.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Central Mennonite Church, or to Eastern Mennonite Board of Missions General Fund, or to the donor's charity of choice.