Michael Lee Schoenecker, a longtime resident of Phoenix, Arizona, passed peacefully at home surrounded by family after a brief battle with cancer on April 13 at the age of 66. Growing up in the town of McPherson, Kansas with his loving parents, six sisters, and two brothers, Mike was devoted to his family. He carried the values of his Midwestern upbringing with him when he moved to Texas and eventually put down roots in Phoenix, Arizona.

For many years, Mike dedicated his professional life to Maricopa County, serving as a skilled and reliable locksmith. His commitment and expertise were valued by his colleagues and the many people he assisted throughout his career. Mike never hesitated to help when a crisis arose; while on duty at the county he witnessed the car in front of him plunge into the canal, without hesitation Mike jumped into the water and pulled 2 kids out from the backseat and got them to safety just as the car flipped over with the mother still inside and water quickly filling up her car, he was able to get her out and to safety.  He also received a commendation from the Phoenix Police when he witnessed a police officer having trouble nabbing a hit and run driver, Mike quickly responded by getting the guys arms behind him so the police officer could get him in cuffs.

The cornerstone of Mike's life was his loving marriage to Andrea. Together for 24 years, they built a strong and cherished partnership filled with the love of their friends and pets. His devotion to Andrea and their dogs was evident in all aspects of his life.

Family was incredibly important to Mike. He was blessed with a large family and cherished the time spent with them. He is preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Ida Mae, his brothers Sam and Bob. Mike is survived by his wife Andrea Lee (Keilback); sisters Bev (Denny) Burch, Sandy (Jay) Krehbiel, Linda (Tommy) Nutt, Christy (Brian) Crowther, Connie (Harold) Krug, Mary (Brad) Johnson; sister-in-law Peggy Schoenecker,  Aunt Margaret (Margie) Nett and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins and friends.

Mike was an avid fan of the Phoenix Suns and NASCAR (his favorite driver being the late Dale Earnhardt). Pastimes included working on his beloved  Scout, consistently working on improvements around the house, watching MMA, listening to country music, Friday night poker with family and friends around the dining room table, the occasional trips to the casinos, backyard barbecues and patrolling his neighborhood. When Mike wasn't barbecuing hamburgers for their dogs (everynight they got a hamburger with their dogfood) Mike would cook a pot of the best tasting Green Chili stew you ever had.

Mike's passing leaves a void in the lives of all who knew him. He will be remembered for his passion, strength, and determination.

A celebration of Mike's life will be held on June 7, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. at JESUS FIRST CHURCH located at 498 W Missouri Ave., Phoenix, Arizona. A light lunch will be served immediately following in the Church's Fellowship Hall.

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