BORN

1924

DIED

2017

FUNERAL HOME

Cook-Walden Funeral Home

6100 North Lamar

Austin, Texas

Ronald Schoonover Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Apr. 3, 2017.

Ronald E. Schoonover was born in Enid, Oklahoma on November 28, 1924, to Charles Edward and Viola Marie Schoonover. Ron attended public schools in Enid until August 19, 1941, when at the age of 16 he signed up with the United States Army Air Corps while his parents were out of town.

During World War II, Ron was assigned as a B-17 Flight Engineer Top Turret Gunner to the 351st Bomb Group, 509 Squadron in Polk Brook, England. He flew 35 missions over German and German-occupied territory finishing his tour of duty in March 1945. He was honorably discharged from service on August 20, 1945, decorated with the Air Medal, five Oak Leaf Clusters, and the European Theater of Operations medal with two battle stars.

On November 8, 1945, less than three months after his discharge Ron reenlisted and attended the P80 Shooting Star Jet Aircraft School at March Field, California. It was at March Field where Ron met Myrtle June Zamarripa, a medical technician with the Women's Army Corp.

Ron and June were married on September 2, 1946. Through their nearly 70 years together, they traveled around the world to Japan, Germany, England, Australia, Okinawa, and numerous cities across the United States. Along the way, June gave birth to their five children: Cynthia Barrientes, Marilyn Tackett, Celia Schoonover, Robert Schoonover, and Thomas Schoonover.

After retiring from service and his long-time employment with General Electric in April 1987, Ron became active in the Seventh Day Adventist Church. He served as Deacon Elder, Teacher, Lay Minister, conducted three Revelation Seminars, helped organize and build the South Austin Seventh Day Adventist Church and administered the Discover Bible Course.

Ron is survived by his four children: Cindy, Celia, Robert, and Thomas; eight grandchildren: Ronnie Carden, Richard Tackett, Angela Tackett, Stephen Larsen, Courtney Chavez, Jonathan Barrientes, Aaron Schoonover, and Ethan Schoonover; and three great grandchildren: Cameron Tackett, Tyler Carden, and Elena Chavez.

Ron is predeceased by June, who passed on May 8, 2016, his daughter Marilyn Tackett, his granddaughter Lauren Emily Schoonover, and his son-in-law Raul Chavez.

Our family lost a true beacon of light and strength. His faith and love will live on in our memories.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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5 Entries

April 7, 2017

To the family of Ron Schoonover, so sorry for your loss. We met them in Okinawa. Lovely people. Privileged to see them again in the states. Jesus promised he would not leave you comfortless, He will come to you. John 14:18 God bless each of you.
Peggy and Bob Criddle

April 7, 2017

Mollie Sue Prowant

I am so sorry to hear of Ron's passing away. A true christian gentleman who we learned to love while we lived in Okinawa, Japan. He has been on my mind this last couple of weeks and I wish that I had of called. Our regards go to each member of his loved family and Chuck and I hope to be at his funeral. Our love and prayers to you each one. Charles and Mollie Sue Prowant

April 4, 2017

Steve Schoonover

He was my favorite uncle. We grew up calling him Uncle Toad, not sure where that came from. Fond memories of visiting him and Aunt June in Austin. My favorite memory of him was when our family spent Christmas with him and his family in Tucson, I believe it was 1965. Great man. He will be missed.

April 3, 2017

Kelvin Barnes

I 'll never forget the day that I learned that Mr. Schoonover served on a Bomber Crew in World War 2. I asked if he had any stories to tell about his war experiences. He paused for a moment then said "no". There was going to be no boasting that day. Mr Schoonover was the dignified father of my friend Robert. During my time in Austin I came to respect and admire has quiet dignity.

My condolences to the family. Rest in peace.

Kelvin Barnes

April 3, 2017

Jere L. Schoonover

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Funeral services provided by:

Cook-Walden Funeral Home

6100 North Lamar, Austin, TX 78752

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