Alexander Mark Schoneweis

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Alexander Mark Schoneweis, 20, of Lincoln, NE passed away on June 17, 2023.

Alexander came into the world seven weeks early, but one minute after his twin brother, Elijah, on June 16, 2003. Alex completed the first 11 years of his education at Prairie Hill Learning Center; where he received a well-rounded Montessori education rooted in nature and community. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from Lincoln Southwest High School where he enjoyed his shop and woodworking classes. At the time of his death, he was a student at McPherson College in Kansas working toward his bachelor’s degree in automotive restoration. He was on a mission to save as many classic cars as possible.

Alex’s first job was the Nebraska rite of passage, detasseling corn. During high school, Alex ran cross country and worked at Jet Splash Car Wash. Soon he moved on to driving a 4-wheel drive John Deere tractor, packing silage and working in the quarry with his dad and brother. Most recently, Alex was pursuing his passion for restoring classic cars in an apprenticeship with Auto Kraft Body and Paint of Lincoln, NE. Alex was a certified scuba diver and loved the ocean. He traveled extensively with his family, visiting over 17 countries. Alex enjoyed summers fishing, camping, and boating, but mostly cruising in his 1953 Chevy with his friends.

Alex was preceded in death by his Grandmother Mary Schoneweis, Grandfather James Day, Uncle Joel Day, Aunt Michelle Day, and several Great Aunts and Uncles.

He is survived by his mother and father, Cheryl and Mark Schoneweis, brother Elijah Schoneweis, grandparents Harlan Schoneweis and partner Laura Gerlach and Frances Day and Doug Colbert; several great aunts and uncles; aunts and uncles Harlan Schoneweis, Jr., John and Colleen Schoneweis, Tina and Larry Vrtiska, Steve Day, Nick and Debbie Day; cousins Brok Schoneweis, Emily McDougall, Katie York, Landry Vrtiska, Christina Day, Justin Day, Amber Bricco, Tiffany Martin, Joshua Day and their spouses and children plus numerous second cousins, and friends, all of whom loved and cared for this amazing young man.

Memorial service: 11:00 am Friday, June 23, 2023, Roper and Sons South Lincoln Chapel, 3950 Hohensee Drive. Livestream available ten minutes prior to service at roperandsons.com/livestream.

A lunch reception wll follow immediately after the service.

Memorials to McPherson College Automotive Restoration program c/o the family.

Condolences online at roperandsons.com

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June 25, 2023

Eli, Cheryl, and Mark We are so very sorry to hear about your loss. We know that this time of sadness is acute and hope that you feel some comfort in being surrounded by your friends and family.

– The Science Focus Program “Zoo” Community

June 25, 2023

Cheryl, Mark and Eli We are heartbroken for you all. Although we did not know Alex well personally, we knew very well of his kind adventurous spirit as evidenced in all the stories that Deb, Sandra and Bella would share with us about your adventures together as well as through little tidbits that Eli would share at SFP. It is a wonderful thing to find “your people” in life and it is evident that Alex had his. His energy does and will continue to exist through you and all his people.

– Emily, Brian, Joseph and Charlie Seifferlein

June 23, 2023

I remember going to Breckenridge with Cheryl, Eli, and Alex. My son was the same age as the twins, maybe they were 7 years old then? Eli and Alex were so nice to Blake. He remembers them due to how welcome he felt. We wish we could offer any of that consolation and good feeling to you all now.

– Susan Humphrey

June 23, 2023

Cheryl, Mark and Eli, I’m so sorry I’m out of town and can’t make it back to be with you in person today. I’m continuing to wrap you in an embrace full of love and comfort as I can’t find words that can express my deepest sympathy for the loss of your Alex. I think of Alex wrapping up those around him with a comforting, safe, easily friendly, understanding and inclusive nature. At times you could actually see him thoughtfully considering situations and interactions and the perspectives of others. His helpfulness, hard-working nature and kindness meant people of all ages felt respected and so enjoyed being around Alex. Some memories that especially make me smile as I remember the unique spirit of Alex are of him creating activities for younger children to enjoy at Prairie Hill’s Children’s Country Fair. Alex’s ingenuity, understanding of people and his hard work came together in a super fun way!! I especially remember his children’s taxi service that pulled young children safely and enjoyably around the fair – much to their and their parents delight! And Alex always managed to get a fleet of peers to help him do this all day!! The rubber duck run was another big favorite of the children’s – their constant squeals of joy showed how he was able to capture the essence of simple fun for them. And, double fun, his ever present fleet of helpers had just as much fun! Through these and countless more stories and examples of Alex being Alex, and how he touched the lives of so many, his spirit will forever shine on. I know I’m all the better for my experiences with Alex and will be forever grateful that he graced my life. All my love and care,

– Chris Eigbrett

June 23, 2023

Our thoughts and prayers are going out to the whole family. I can’t even imagine… Our deepest symapathies. Matt, Amber, Lilyonna and Rylan.

– Matthew Gable

June 23, 2023

I will always remember Alex for his great stories, and the passion he put into his work. I met Alex as a fellow student while attending McPherson College. He never turned anyone down who needed help with their project, and was always ready for the next great adventure. My heart goes out to all of the Schoneweis family and all of Alex’s friends. Rest easy my friend, you’ll be missed by many.

– Brandon Chaffin

June 23, 2023

There no words only love can help carry you right now. Cheryl, Mark and Eli you are loved beyond words can describe as is Alex. Crying with you…

– Angela, Jon and Jerry

June 22, 2023

I’m glad I got to know Alex for as long as I did. But I never once imagined, that a lifelong friendship could be so short. Rest easy, my friend. I hope all the love and joy that should’ve been, still finds you in some form.

– Gryffin Sumner

June 22, 2023

My heart goes out to your whole family. Keeping all of you in my thoughts and prayers.

– Bev Baker Koehler

June 21, 2023

To Eli, You are far too sweet & young to experience this kind of loss. I am so sorry for the tragic taking of your best friend. I know it was sooo long ago but I always loved hanging around you two when you were tots. Please take care of yourself & know that you are supported. All the love & light,

– Brianne Key

June 21, 2023

I have no words at all. To be living & thriving one minute & gone the next. I am so so sorry Cheryl & Mark. He was far too young. Sending all the love.

– Brianne Key

June 21, 2023

That smile! And so willing to get wood in for Grandpa, fishing with Grandpa, and seeing Grandpa and Alex talk about cars. He and Grandpa had talked Friday about getting his car ready for Homested Parade this Saturday. And for saving Bucky, our cat. I had looked for new baby kittens, but could not find them. Two days later we go camping at Branched Oak. Harlan opens up camper to set it, and calls for me to come. Three baby kittens, but no mama. I fear they would have been in the bottom of Lake, but I go to Alex and ask if he would take me back to the farm. Without hesitation he agreed. On the way back we stopped at the Pickerl farm to see his cats, and of course the car he was working on! Yes. Mama cat quickly took the kitten back to join two others. So now there were 5! Oh, Alex, you will be sooo missed.