Esther J. Schoofs

Esther J. Schoofs was born Esther Josephine Blady, in West Allis, Wisconsin in 1919. Daughter of Valentine and Katherine Blady and sister of ten, she believed that she will join them all in heaven.

She was also predeceased by husbands, Ray Horbinski, killed in WWII, and William L. Schoofs, who died in 1998 after a career in the Navy and as Manager of Social Security Offices in Milwaukee and various other cities.

Esther was a vivacious woman who will be remembered for her sweetness, humor, faith, and genuine concern for other people. She graduated from Cudahy High School, where she was 1937 Prom Queen, before going to work as a buyer for Boston Store. Later in life, she worked as a Market Research coordinator. First generation, she was always proud of her Polish heritage, and tried to convince her husband, Bill, that he too was Polish rather than German. Her love of dancing and games of any kind never changed, and she was always ready for a good game of Rummy, Bridge, or Bingo. Her motto in poker seemed to be "never fold".

A devout Catholic, Esther took an active role in her churches in both Greendale, WI and Sun City Center, FL. She was an active member of many organizations in both cities, including Polish National Alliance, ROAL, Milwaukee Court and Civic Conference and Greendale Women's Club.

Esther's most proud accomplishment, however, was her family. She will be greatly missed by her children, Ron Horbinski (Cyndi), Diane Jankowski (Erv), Karen Vogel (Dave), Lynn Cushwa (Dave) and Christine Farley (Dave); as well as her 10 grandchildren: Eric (Lauren) and Adam Horbinski; Nathan and Leah Vogel; Katie, David and Will Cushwa and Jessica, Patrick and Megan Farley. She was also loved by many nieces and nephews around the country.

We want to thank the staff of St Camillus and, specifically, St Camillus Home Health and Hospice for their wonderful care of Mom and our entire family during this difficult time.

A Memorial Gathering will be held at St. Camillus Assisted Living (Guardian Angel Chapel), 10101 West Wisconsin Avenue, Wauwatosa on Thursday, June 26, from 9:00-10:00 AM, followed by a Memorial Mass at 10:00 AM. The family asks that gifts be given to St Camillus Foundation in lieu of flowers.