Thomas "Tom" Henry Schenker

Thomas “Tom” Henry Schenker, age 91, of North East, passed away peacefully Friday, June 26, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born on August 31, 1934, in Erie, Pennsylvania, he was the beloved eldest son of the late Henry and Clara (Kneissler) Schenker.

Tom graduated from Millcreek High School in 1953 and served in the United States Navy Reserve and United States Army 2nd Battle Group, 12th Infantry, 8th Division, stationed in Germany. After returning home, he began his career at Quinn Berry Plastics before joining Niagara Plastics, where he dedicated over thirty years before retiring.

A man of integrity and civic spirit, Tom was a longtime member of the North East Lodge #399 of the Free & Accepted Masons and Captain of the former volunteer organization State Police of Erie and Crawford Counties. A highlight of Tom’s life was travelling and presenting with the American Legion Post 105 Drill Team. Tom was a proud founding donor to the National Museum of the United States Army, and has a brick dedicated to his service. He served as a longtime Elder in the North East First Presbyterian Church. In retirement, he treasured traveling with his loving wife, escaping the winter chill in Naples, Florida, reading about history, and enjoyed countless rounds of golf with his leagues, family, and friends. Above all, Tom was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose greatest joy was cheering on his children and grandchildren in all their endeavors.

In addition to his parents, Tom was preceded in death by his brothers John, Richard, Edward and James Schenker, and his sister Donna Rigdon.

He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Judith L. (Orton) Schenker; his children Hallie (Grant) Mason, Heidi Schenker (K. Scot Terry), and Hillori Schenker (Brian Lione); and his cherished grandchildren Rhys, Brooke, and Baylie Mason. He is also survived by his brother Bob (Carolyn) Schenker; his sisters-in-law Geraldine Orton, Terri Schenker, and Jean Schenker; and many nieces and nephews.

Friends may call Wednesday, July 1, 4 to 7 p.m., William D. Elkin Funeral Home, 65 S. Lake St., North East, PA. Funeral services will be Thursday, July 2, 11 a.m., at the First Presbyterian Church of North East, 25 West Main Street, North East, PA. Pastor Gregg Townsend will officiate the service. Burial will be at 2 p.m., following the service, in North East Cemetery, with full Military Honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the North East Masonic Lodge #399.

Please send condolences to elkinfh.com.

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