Darwin Schoenwald: 1952-2022

Darwin Schoenwald, 70 of Marion, S.D., passed away on Sept. 3, 2022 at the Sanford USD Medical Center in Sioux Falls, S.D. A memorial service was scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 8 at the Hofmeister-Jones Funeral Chapel, Marion.

Darwin David Schoenwald passed away after a lengthy stay in the hospital. Darwin was born May 24, 1952 in Marion to Dave and Marian (Deckert) Schoenwald. Darwin was married twice, first to Dawn who had two daughters that Darwin loved as his own. His second marriage was March 18, 2001 to Gerrie Becker and they made their home in Albuquerque, N.M. Although Darwin and Gerrie divorced they were able to remain friends and spoke often. Darwin truly loved his niece and nephew, Echo and Robbie, who were more commonly referred to as Niecey and Nephie. They will always remember him for his jokes and the many hours they spent laughing while with him. They would get to visit either Des Moines or Albuquerque on summer breaks and he was so proud of how they have grown up and the wonderful parents they have become.

The Schoenwald family is large and Darwin enjoyed family reunions with many aunts, uncles and cousins. Darwin also had lifetime friends who he always kept in touch with, John Schrag and Tommy O’Farrell just to name a few. 

Darwin is survived by his brothers Elton and Robert (Edie) Schoenwald of Marion and Marlin of Vermillion, S.D.; Niece Echo (Ross) Deelstra of Tea, S.D.; Nephew Robbie (Kathy Gums) Schoenwald of Sioux Falls; great-nieces and nephews Saige, Sequoia, Declan and Urijah Deelstra and Trey and Taya Schoenwald. He was preceded in death by his parents Dave and Marian Schoenwald; niece Samantha Schoenwald; and great-niece Mavi Deelstra.