Loren D. Schoenwetter

Loren “Schoenie” Schoenwetter, 82, of Waterloo, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Loren was born on May 11, 1944, in Columbus, WI, to Clarence and Dorothy (Stark) Schoenwetter. He graduated from Waterloo High School with the Class of 1962.

On August 31, 1968, Loren married the love of his life, Kathy (Hammer). Together, they shared 58 years of marriage, building a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, family, and countless cherished memories. Kathy was his partner, best friend, and constant companion.

Loren loved watching Wisconsin sports, but he was especially thrilled when his beloved White Sox won the World Series. In his younger years, he spent many seasons playing with the Home Talent Baseball Team and was also an avid bowler. Sports brought him great joy, but sharing those moments with family and friends made them even more special.

Loren loved the outdoors. Every spring, he planted his garden and took great pride in all his hard work—although most of the vegetables he wouldn’t touch with a ten-foot pole. Still, he loved planting them, nonetheless.

He was a “jack of all trades, master of none.” He enjoyed watching television and keeping an eye on the birds outside his window. His recliner was perfectly positioned so he wouldn’t miss either.

Loren had a wonderful sense of humor and a kind heart. His smile, presence, laughter, stories, and familiar ways will be missed more than words can express.

Loren is survived by his beloved wife, Kathy; children, Kim, Jim, and Missy; honorary children, Matt “Z”, Carmen, Andrea, and Kathy; brothers, Marvin (Roberta) and David (Reva); brothers-in-law, Dan (Kerri) Hammer and Joe (Terri) Hammer; sisters-in-law, Lori (Nick) Stoeckel and Karen (Dave Homp) Hammer; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Violet (Guy) Sharpe; brother, Lyle (Dorothy); brother-in-law, Mike Hammer; and honorary son, Travis.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to Waterloo EMS and the amazing staff at UW Madison Hospital for their kindness, compassion, and exceptional care. Your support and comfort during this difficult time will never be forgotten.

Rest easy, Schoenie. You were deeply loved, you will be greatly missed, and you will remain forever in our hearts.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00am on Friday, October 2, 2026, at Columbus Community Church of the Nazarene. A visitation will take place on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at the Pederson-Nowatka Funeral Home in Waterloo from 5:00pm to 7:00pm. Visitation will also take place at the church on Friday from 10:00am until the time of service. Burial will take place at a later date.