John Marshall Schooley

John Marshall Schooley
January 2, 1946 – February 19, 2026

John Marshall Schooley, 80, passed away on February 19, 2026.

Born on January 2, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois, John was raised in Tinley Park alongside his sister, Betsy, by their parents, Marshall John Schooley and Phoebe Katherine Schooley (née Wilson). He later raised his own family with his wife in her childhood home in Chicago, before moving to Munster, Indiana, in recent years to be closer to his daughter and her family.

John proudly served four years in the United States Navy. In his younger years, he carried a free-spirited independence — once hitchhiking to California in hopes of catching a Grateful Dead concert and spending time living simply. That adventurous spirit stayed with him throughout his life.

He worked for many years as a machinist, dedicating himself to his trade with quiet determination. The work eventually impacted his hearing — something he characteristically brushed off with stubborn resolve.

John found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He was an avid cyclist and rode daily for many years, finding freedom on two wheels. He had a deep love for music and built an impressive vinyl collection, sharing his appreciation for artists such as The Beatles, Bob Dylan, Led Zeppelin, and the Grateful Dead with his family. Records spinning in the background became part of the rhythm of his home.

John was also a passionate photographer in his earlier years, building his own darkroom to develop film and carefully preserving everyday moments through his lens. He enjoyed reading, watching sports, and spending time outdoors.

Above all, John was a devoted husband and family man. He shared 51 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Barbara (née Mast) Schooley. Together they built a life filled with quiet routines and shared hobbies, including many years of bowling together in a league — where he was known for his impressive hook. Their life together spanned youth and adventure, challenges and resilience, sustained by a love that never wavered. He was a proud father to Michael Schooley and Kimberly Schooley (Peter Pollok), and a cherished grandfather to Katie, TJ, and Amelia.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Marshall John Schooley and Phoebe Katherine Schooley (née Wilson), and his sister, Betsy.

John will be remembered for his independence, his quiet strength, his stubborn streak, and his love for his family. May he rest easy now, reunited with the freedom he found on two wheels and the music that carried him through a lifetime.

A Celebration of Life will be announced and held at a later date.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John Marshall Schooley, please visit our floral store.