Stella Marie Schoenberger

Stella Marie Schoenberger, 81, of Aurora, Colorado, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2025. She was born on September 21, 1943, in Ellis, Kansas, to John and Frances Honas, whom she loved dearly and often spoke of as being in Heaven. Stella lived a life full of laughter, love, and faith and will be remembered for her sassy wit, unfiltered honesty, and devotion to her family.

A proud farm girl at heart, Stella grew up on a farm in Ellis and carried with her the values of hard work, perseverance, and a deep connection to her roots. She was also a loving military wife, spending 59 years by the side of her husband, Robert Schoenberger, who survives her. Their love story was a testament to commitment, and they shared a bond that will never be broken.

Stella’s faith was central to her life, and she held onto it strongly throughout her years. She loved tending to her cucumber and dill garden, spending hours cultivating it with care. She also found great joy in cleaning, a passion she embraced wholeheartedly.

Stella’s sense of humor was infectious, and she never hesitated to speak her mind. She had a fondness for simple pleasures, from an ice cold pop with potato chips to black licorice, cantaloupe, and her beloved Payday candy bars. She knew each grandchild's favorite snack, and always made sure to keep the cabinets well-stocked, ensuring they knew they were loved.

A true fan of Elvis, Stella enjoyed listening to his music, and her TV time was filled with shows like Ridiculousness, Judge Judy, Cops, and Forensic Files & old westerns. Stella always had Carmex and Rolaids on hand, ready for any occasion—little essentials that were always with her.

Her favorite flowers were dahlias and carnations, which brightened her garden and brought her great joy.

She will be missed by all who knew her. Stella leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and laughter, and her memory will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends.

Stella is survived by her loving husband of 59 years, Robert Schoenberger; her children Greg Schoenberger, Sandy Pingel (husband Brian Pingel), Brenda Major (husband Tom Major), and Bobby Schoenberger. She was a proud grandmother to Ashley Thron (husband Austin Thron) and their children, Ashtyn Thron and Tanner Thron; Amber Pingel; Thomas Major Jr (wife Alejandra Major) and their son, Hayes Major; Lauren Major; Kayla Major and Alex Schoenberger.

She is also survived by her siblings, Norbert Honas (wife Donna Honas) and Laurene Honas, as well as honorary son Grierson Wheeldon & honorary granddaughter Maleah Wheeldon.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Frances Honas, and other loved ones.

A private visitation will take place on Monday, March 31, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, followed by a Mass on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. A reception will be held on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Newcomer Funeral Home, East Metro.

Rest in peace, Stella, where you can now enjoy all the bologna sandwiches, cantaloupe, and Elvis tunes your heart desires.