Richard Neil Schonauer

On Sunday, Jan. 17, 2021, Richard Neil Schonauer, loving husband, stepfather, grandfather, brother and uncle passed away at the age of 71.

At the time of his passing, he was surrounded by love and family.

Rich was born on March 24, 1949, in Cleveland, to Frederick and Mary Louise (Ralls) Schonauer. He graduated from Saint Joseph’s High School, in Cleveland, and was a founding member of the popular band the “Lost Souls.”

As a salesman, he worked for several companies that included Roth Provision and Mentor TV.

Rich’s last professional passion included working for Giant Eagle located in Chardon. Many community members know him from his many years of service in the store’s liquor department.

Rich and his wife, Stephanie (nee Work) Schonauer, eloped on Aug. 25, 1997. The ceremony was led by an Elvis impersonator and held at the Las Vegas Wedding Chapel in fabulous Las Vegas, Nev.

An avid sports and baseball fan, he enjoyed taking his grandchildren to Cleveland Indians games.

He was a proud member of the National Rifle Association and a registered Republican. He was always happy to share his views on both topics in a spirited yet loveable manner.

Rich was preceded in death by his wife, Stephanie; father, Frederick Schonauer; mother, Mary Louise (nee Ralls); brother David Schonauer (Brenda); and one nephew.

He is survived by his two stepchildren, Andrew White (Heather) and Erica White; and four grandchildren, Alexander, Jacob, Olivia and Cade White.

He is also survived by two brothers, Thomas Schonauer (Sharon) and Kenneth Schonauer (Martha); along with four nieces and three nephews.

A memorial service will not be held.

The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (https://donate.lls.org/lls/donate) or the Geauga Hunger Task Force (https://www.geaugahungertaskforce.org/donate/geauga-hunger-task-force-25932).

St. John Funeral Home of Bainbridge Township, 440-708-1855, is handling arrangements.