|
Obituary: Eli Schindler, 79, Talcottville
Published: July 07, 2026
By: Provided by
Mills Funeral Home
Eli Schindler
 TALCOTTVILLE- With heavy
hearts, we announce the passing of Eli Schindler, a man whose greatest
accomplishments were not the things he built, but the family and
friendships he made along the way.
He was born on
May 20, 1947, in Constableville, a son of Joseph E. and Margaret Albertson
Schindler. Eli grew up on Mohawk Hill and graduated from Constableville
High School with the class of 1967. Following graduation, he made his
career in the construction industry and was a proud 58-year member of
Laborers’ Local 35. Eli operated heavy equipment, and there wasn’t much he
couldn’t build, repair, or figure out. If something was broken, everyone
knew exactly who to call. Eli was hardworking, dependable, quick-witted,
and famous for giving those he loved a hard time. On October 2, 1971, he
married Beverly Myers at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Constableville.
Around Eli, a
little good-natured teasing was just another way of saying, “I care about
you.” He had a knack for making people laugh, lending a helping hand, and
leaving every place and every person a little better than he found them…and
with a broader vocabulary.
He greatly
enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, construction work, playing pitch, old
country music, and making maple syrup. Eli also took pleasure in
volunteering at the New York State Woodsmen’s Field Days, where he helped
run the grease pole climb and beard contests.
Eli was a devoted
husband, an incredible father, a proud grandfather and great-grandfather, a
loving brother, and a loyal friend.
He leaves behind
his beloved wife of 55 years, Beverly Schindler; his daughters, Susan Case
(Norman Fey) and Sheri Underwood; his cherished grandchildren, Keagen Case,
Kennedy Case (Mike Leibl), Kiersten Case (Chris Jackson), Kinsley Premo,
Sierra Underwood, and Brooke Underwood (Elijah Lohr); and his treasured
great-grandchildren, Karsyn Hrim and Levi Lohr. He is also survived by his
sisters, Roxie Higby and Mary (Rick) Chase; his brother, Bill (Phyliss)
Schindler; his sister-in-law, Barb Schindler; along with many nieces,
nephews, cousins, and countless dear friends who became family.
Eli was
predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Margaret Schindler; infant daughter,
Darlene; his brother, Wayne Schindler; his brother-in-law, Myles Higby; and
his son-in-law, Kevin Underwood.
Though our hearts
are broken, we find comfort in knowing that his legacy lives on in every
lesson he taught, every laugh he shared, every project he completed, and
every life he touched.
We can only
imagine that Heaven has already found its best grade foreman, estimator,
superintendent, heavy equipment operator, mechanic, and all-around problem
solver. If something up there needs fixing, he’s probably already on it
with a grin, a clever remark, and a few people laughing while he gets the
job done.
We will miss him
more than words could ever express, but we will carry his strength, his
work ethic, his humor, and his love with us always.
Calling hours
will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at
Mills Funeral Home, 301 Post Street, Boonville. Following calling hours,
all are invited to the Boonville VFW for a gathering. Food donations may be
dropped off at the VFW beginning at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday. Memorial
contributions in his name may be made to the Boonville Volunteer Fire
Company and Ambulance Fund, P.O. Box 164, Boonville, NY 13309.
Condolences may
be shared with Eli’s family online at www.millsfuneralhomes.com.
|
