Elmer Chris Schoonhoven Obituary (2024)

Elmer "Al" Chris Schoonhoven, of Yakima, Washington, passed away on August 9, 2024, surrounded by family. He was born on December 21, 1936, to Chris and Ines Schoonhoven, in Yakima, Washington. He had three sisters and one brother. After finishing high school, he served in the United States Marine Corps from 1954 to 1962, serving active duty for 4 years in Okinawa, Japan, and Camp Pendleton. After returning from service overseas, he married MaryEllen Valentine in 1960, and was blessed with three wonderful children, Vicki, John, and Brian. He was a member of the West Valley Fire Department, where he proudly served his community for 25 years as a firefighter. He was awarded "Firefighter of the Year" in 1997. Al also worked at Snyders Bakery for 18 years, before transitioning to Yakima Water Department, until his retirement. Al enjoyed spending time with his family. He was an avid fly fisherman, enjoyed salmon and halibut fishing, as well as crabbing on the Pacific Coast. He loved to go camping at Blue Lake, traveling in their RV all around the Pacific Northwest, and spending time with his grandchildren, teaching them how to "fish properly." He is survived by his wife of 64 years, MaryEllen, his three children, Vicki (Greg) Fortier, John (Kristi), Brian (Vickie), six grandchildren, Chris (Asuka) Fortier, Amber (Skylar) Deffinbaugh, Stephanie (Brandon) Groenig, Chase (Courtney), Kayla (Trevor), Chad (Nicole) and six great-grandchildren, Noah, Liam, Juniper, Mila, Ivy and Henry. He is also survived by his sister, Helen, and brother, Richard, sisters, and brothers-in-law, Judy and Steve, Dan and Katie, and lifelong friends, Dian and Eric Erickson. Al is preceded in death by his parents, Chris and Ines, his sisters, Phylis and Janet. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, August 18, 2024, at 12:00pm at the Washington Event Center (2807 W Washington Ave, Yakima WA 98908). A Lunch Reception will follow. Brookside Funeral Home is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.brooksidefuneral.com.