Eric Joseph Schoenung was born on March 1, 1960, to Donald Schoenung and Marilyn Schoenung (Elmer) in Dayton, Ohio. He died on March 26, 2025, at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Clay County, Florida. Eric was diagnosed with Lewy Body disease in 2015.

Eric became known as “Rick” to his family and friends.  Rick grew up in Kettering, Ohio and graduated from Fairmont East Highschool.  Rick joined the Navy in 1980 and served until 1988. He proudly served in the Navy under Ronald Reagan and served in three World tours on the carriers, Kitty Hawk and Coral Sea and embraced combat in Granada. After the Navy, Rick helped establish the P3 operation under the U.S Customs site in Corpus Christi, Texas and then worked at Cecil Field, Florida for a total 20 years in the program. He was an Aviation Electrician and AP Mechanic, along with being able to fix anything.  Rick once worked on the King Ranch in Texas and swears he shook hands with George Strait.  Rick formed lifelong friendships in the Navy and the P3 program (along with his family) that shaped him into the hero he was.is now in Heaven.

Rick was a true American who defended the United States Flag with honor.  He loved this country and loved the Navy.  Most of all, he loved God and his family, no matter the distance.

Rick “rescued” Connie when they first met and her “Ricky Joe”  continued to be Connie’s “knight in shining armor” and the “best country dancer” throughout their marriage. Eric introduced Connie to the Roman Catholic faith and their family was built on a foundation of love and respect for each other by following the sacraments with the Lord Jesus Christ in the middle holding them together.  Eric was a 3rd Degree Knights of Columbus. Eric “Rick” and Connie were married in 1995 and joined the Roman Catholic Church. Their marriage was blessed in Matrimony in 2005.  Eric and Connie were immensely blessed with four children. Matthew Schoenung (Rachel), Kent Lee Meyer, Royston James Schoenung (Tamara), and Kayla Lynn Schoenung (Zackary). They also have four grandchildren: Ethan, Atlas, Collins and Griffin who he talked about and cherished every day.

The holidays were always a wonderful family affair.  Rick was known for being an Ohio State fan, his barbeque brisket… and garlic shrimp that he made special for Connie even though he was allergic to seafood.  He also made sure the kiddos continued to believe in Santa Claus by putting ashy footprints by the fireplace or helping his little Kayla sprinkle magic corn for the reindeer.  Rick loved to work,,,and work on cars. He also loved watching his son RJ learn all his tricks to fixing things. He had great pride for all his sons and daughter, and grandkids.

Eric “Rick” is predeceased by both his mom and dad, Donald and Marilynn Schoenung, He was also predeceased by his brother David Vincent Shoenung (Lisa) who died on March 6, 2025. He is predeceased by his in-laws Roy and Sandy Frech. Eric is survived by his wife of 29 years, Connie; Sons: Royston James “RJ” Schoenung, Matthew Charles Schoenung, and Kent Lee Meyer; Daughter: Kayla Lynn Schoenung; Sisters: Karla Jane Green, Jennifer AnnYoder (Michael) and Kathryn Jean Vannorsdall (Dennis); Brother in-law: Carl Frech; and nieces and nephews and friends. Special mention to our Sister-in-law, Lisa Schoenung who is the recent widow of David, Rick’s amazing brother.

A Memorial Mass is scheduled for  May 1, 2025 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with a reception following.  There will also be a gathering on May 3, 2025, at their home.  Please contact Connie for details 904-576-9914. Interment of Eric “Rick’s” remains will be at the National Cemetery, Dayton OH at a later date.

Arrangements are under the care of Russell Haven of Rest Cemetery, Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 2335 Sandridge Road, Green Cove Springs, FL  32043.  Family and friends may share their condolences at: www.RHRFH.com 904-284-7720