Obituary of John J. Schantz

Schantz, John J.

John J. Schantz Sr. of Irondequoit NY, formerly of Naples, FL passed away peacefully the morning of July 1, 2019 at the Episcopal Church Home at the age of 83. He is survived by his Children; John Jr. (Julie) Schantz, Stephen (JoEllyn) Schantz, Christine Schantz Speedy, Gregory (Jennilee) Schantz; and the mother of his children Jane (Conge) Gears; grandchildren Brian, David, Jason and Erin Schantz, Samantha and Mark Speedy and Grayson Schantz, sisters Veronica (Walt) DeWind and Catherine (Stuart) Meisenzahl, his aunt Elizabeth Schantz and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents Frank J. and Catherine (Halleck) Schantz and his brother Tim Schantz. John was born and raised in Rochester. He graduated from Aquinas Institute in 1954 and earned a B.S. in Civil Engineering from Syracuse University in 1958. Upon graduation he entered the United States Air Force and as a fighter pilot achieved the rank of Major. As a member of the N Y Air National Guard, John served in Viet Nam where he flew 264 combat missions. John was President of Schantz Homes, Inc. for 35 years and a dedicated member of his community serving on numerous civic and industry boards. He was intensely focused, hardworking and resilient. He lived life at full throttle and enjoyed socializing and sharing stories with his family and many varied friends. John was a member of Oak Hill Country Club. He was an avid golfer, skier, runner and sailor. He also traveled extensively. John's family extends a special thanks to friends and neighbors who provided companionship and kept him safe in his time need. The family is grateful to his many caregivers and the staff at the Rochester Episcopal Home for their compassionate care.

His family will receive friends Monday, July 15, 4-7 pm at the funeral home (570 Kings Highway So.). Private interment at Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Aquinas Institute of Rochester, 1127 Dewey Ave., Rochester, NY, 14613.