Steve Shoning

Steven Russell Schoning was born April 13, 1956, the son of Mary (Brinkley) and Duane Schoning of Milford. He was a rambunctious child who enjoyed living on the farm, riding on the tractors, and playing with the family pets. He received his schooling in Estherville, Milford and Spirit Lake, graduating in 1974 from Spirit Lake High School with the help of his favorite teacher, Mr. Gibson. In 1975, he went to work at Echo-Plus, Inc. of Spirit Lake, a workshop for adults with disabilities, and was employed there for over 35 years. While at Echo-Plus, he learned to live on his own, moving from a group home into his own apartment for many years, until his health forced him to return to a group home. One of his favorite jobs was working at Arnolds Park Amusement Park as a groundskeeper for many summers. He enjoyed watching professional wrestling, as well as old TV shows and going to Spirit Lake Schools sporting events. He was a big Green Bay Packers fan, and enjoyed betting against the Vikings! Steve loved spending time with his Echo-Plus friends, and the many activities they shared. His big smile and friendly hello followed him everywhere, and his happy disposition was well known in the area! Steve was a lifelong member of Union Memorial Church in Milford. He had been a resident at Hilltop Care Center in Spirit Lake for the past year. He passed away on his 56th birthday, after battling health problems the last few years. Left to cherish his memory are his mother, Mary Schoning of Spirit Lake, sisters: Susan (Steve) Koenck of Cedar Rapids, Sharon (Tom) Norgaard of Spencer, and Sally Larson of Arnolds Park, as well as nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, Duane, in 2006.