Obituary for Ladeen Elaine Thomas Schoenberger

Ladeen Elaine Thomas Schoenberger, a woman whose zest for life was matched by the speed of her beloved toys, has revved her engine for the final time. She crossed the finish line of life’s grand race on April 10, 2025, after a short battle with cancer. Born on Halloween, 1945, in Upper Sandusky, Ohio, to the late Norman and Wanda Thomas. She married William Schoenberger, Ladeen’s pit crew in life included her only son, Doyle, of Upper Sandusky, Ohio; daughters Dawn (Michael) Patterson of Carey, Ohio; Dee (Chris) Higgins of Bay City, Michigan; and Dia (Monte) Seifert of Carey, Ohio. And her fan club of Jacob, Jordan, Lexi, Lia, Darian, Kori, Gage, Carson, and Bailey. Her pit lane also featured an adorable lineup of Wren, Addison, Anden, Rowan, Brielle, Knoxx, and Kamryn, with one little rookie expected to join the team in June.
Beyond the sound of engines and the smell of motor oil, Ladeen was a gentle soul with a heart of gold. Ladeen’s interests and hobbies were as eclectic and vibrant as her personality. Herbie, the black ’73 Super Beetle that she completely refurbished, was a testament to her skill and creativity. She also took immense pleasure in souping up a scooter she affectionately named Little Bug, much to the amusement of her neighbors, who would honk and wave as she passed by. Ladeen’s small collection of garden tractors, each with its unique name, further showcased her love for all things mechanical.
All animals, especially dogs, held a special place in Ladeen’s heart. She was known to rescue any dog she felt was not receiving the care it deserved. Over the years, she provided a loving home to many, including Gabby, Emma, Sky, and more recently, Junior and Amy. To Ladeen, they were not just dogs; they were her babies, and she was quick to correct anyone who thought otherwise. In her younger years, Ladeen’s need for speed found an outlet in drag racing, a hobby that thrilled her to the core. She was an avid fan of Dale Earnhardt and his son, Dale Jr., following their careers with great enthusiasm. Ladeen’s collection of writing pens, each more unique than the last, demonstrated her appreciation for the finer details in life. She found great satisfaction in working with her hands, whether it was with tools, screws, nuts, bolts, or wood. Building, reconstructing, and repurposing were more than just pastimes for Ladeen—they were a way of life.
 So, as we bid farewell to Ladeen, let’s rev our engines one more time in her honor, let’s find joy in the simple things, and let’s remember to laugh, live, and love as fully as she did.
A celebration of life will be held from 12:00-2:00PM Sat. Apr. 26, 2025 at Bringman Clark Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Bringman Clark Funeral Home 226 East Wyandot Ave. Upper Sandusky, OH 43351 to assist the family.