Obituary of John S. Schaller

John “Johnny” Stuart Schaller passed away on Tuesday November 19, 2024, in the comfort of his home surrounded by the love of his family. Born on April 5, 1940, he was a son of the late Stuart and Anna Kreimeyer Schaller. John grew up in Utica, NY and graduated from Proctor High School in 1958.

 On September 5, 1959, John was united in marriage to Sharon Duffy, together they shared a blessed union of over 65 years. They had many blessed years together and a lifetime of adventure. Together they traveled to Europe, went on over thirty cruises, shared a home in Florida and their home here in Westmoreland, NY. John had an incredible work ethic and rarely sat idle. John was employed by Niagara Mohawk as a Heavy Equipment Operator from 1966 until his retirement in 1994. Following “retirement” he drove school bus part time and then drove tractor trailer hauling pool water for his son’s business, “Schaller Pool Water” until he was 81 years old.

John always went above and beyond for his wife and his family who meant the world to him. He was a gifted mechanic and was always willing to share his talents by helping others. John had a big heart and giving spirit, he would do anything he could to help anyone. Everyone lucky enough to know John loved him. He had a smile like no other that would light up a room and loved nothing more than being with his family, driving a tractor trailer, or sipping on a Vodka Martini. You could often find him on a Friday or Saturday Night at his favorite place, Michael T's Restaurant, with his wife, daughter & son in law.

John is survived by his wife Sharon; his daughter Michele (Jack) Cotter, Vernon; son Jeffrey (Denise) Schaller, Florida; Daughter Barbara (Daniel) Kitchen, Vernon; eight very special Grandchildren; Kara (Daniel) Brown, Nicole Cotter, Jason (Heather) Cotter, Jody (Kelly) Myers, Holly (Christopher) DeVoy, Daniel (Lindsey) Kitchen, Haley Kitchen, and Richard Schaller, Jr. He also leaves behind his nine cherished great-grandchildren: Jacob & Katelyn Brown, Michael Peppinelli, Caiden Roosenberg & Brysen Hitchcock, Gabriel, Jaxson, & Melody Myers, and Josephine  Kitchen. John also leaves behind a sister Joan (Bill) Ward in Florida, & several nieces and nephews that he thought the world of. He was predeceased by his son Richard Schaller Sr, on April 2, 2024.

The family would like to extend a very special thank you to Dr. Scott Brehaut and his office staff for the exceptional care given to John over the years. Scott, you always went above and beyond with your concern and caring for Dad. We will always remember your kindness, care, and compassion. We would also like to thank Hospice and Palliative Care, especially Sheila, Debbie, and Barb for the loving care and support shown to our family and Dad in his final days. You are truly Angels here on Earth.
 
I lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in John’s name to Hospice & Palliative Care or to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
In keeping with John’s wishes, there will be no public services. A celebration of life will take place at a later date. Funeral services are entrusted to Owens- Pavlot & Rogers Funeral Service, Clinton, NY.