Herbert C. Schoket Obituary (2007) - Overland Park, Kansas

Herbert C. Schoket, “Herbie”, father, WWII ex-POW, retired manufacturer’s representative, died September 12, 2007 in Overland Park, KS. He was born June 16, 1920 to Israel and Frances Schoket in Worcester, MA and spent his youth in Pittston, PA. He attended the University of Scanton until he joined the service in 1940 just as WWII was beginning to erupt. A member of the Army Air Corp, (the current US Air Force), Hebert flew on many aerial bombing missions in a B-17 as a radio operator and a rear tail gunner. In 1944, Schoket’s B-17 was shot down and the crew was captured. He survived the 600-mile Black March of POW’s across Germany during the 12 months he spent as a POW. He was a decorated veteran receiving numerous medals for his heroic acts: the Purple Heart, the Air Medal, the POW Medal, the American Defense Medal, the Victory Medal, the ETO Medal of Operations American Campaign and the Good Conduct Medal. After the war, he returned home to Pennsylvania and married Harriet Coleman. They had three children and then moved to Kansas City, MO to raise them. Harriet passed away in 1976. Herb remarried in 1982 to Marie Shindler. Marie passed away in 2002. Herbie’s generous and emphatic nature made him a giver of his time and finances. He volunteered numerous hours at the VA in Kansas City, MO and supported veterans from all wars. He was a member of American Ex-POW organization, VFW 790, Elks #26, Air Force Sgt. Association, Military Order of Purple Hearts, Disabled American Veterans, Jewish War Veterans and the Ararat Shrine. He was preceded in death by his parents plus Harriet Coleman Schoket and Marie Shindler Schoket. His children survive him: William M. Schoket, Eudora, KS; Debbie and Steve Duddleston, Overland Park, KS; David J. and Susan Schoket, Wichita, KS; grandsons: Charles and Martin Schoket. Funeral services will be 1:30pm Sunday, September 16, at The Louis Memorial Chapel, 6830 Troost Avenue. Burial at Mt. Carmel Cemetery. Kindly omit flowers, the family suggests contributions to American Parkinson’s Disease Association or a charity of your choice.