Obituary of Christopher L. Schaal
Age 50, of Joliet, IL passed away Saturday, August 13, 2022 at Edward Hines VA Hospital. Chris was born on May 30, 1972 to Sandra (nee Maske) and Norman Schaal in Joliet where he resided all of his life. He was a graduate of St. Patrick Catholic Grade School and was a longtime parishioner of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, where he served as an altar boy in his youth. He graduated with the class of 1990 from Joliet Central High School and then went on to serve his Country proudly in the U.S. Navy.
He is the beloved son of Norman and Sandra; fond brother of Brandon (Regina) Schaal and a dear nephew of Joan and Randy Potts, Sharon and Chuck Whitaker, and Timarie Maske. He will also be missed by his cousins, Jennifer (Jared) Browning-Martin, Randy Lee Potts, Bethany (Robert) Whitaker-Jones, and very special young cousin dear to his heart, Abrielle Whitaker, and many good friends.
A talented woodworker and craftsman, He was a self-employed home improvement specialist. Although many will miss his handy work and aptitude in solving the occasional problems and aches of being a homeowner, Chris will be most remembered for his giving nature, huge heart and eagerness to support so many worthy local causes. He volunteered at the annual Relay for Life Cancer Walk, and took part in the St. Baldrick’s head shaving fundraiser for children’s cancer. He was very active in the St. Patrick’s School Alumni group and helped with their Patrick Paul Scholarship Fund.
Chris was a past President of the Irish American Society of County Will and current Chairman of the Board. He was very instrumental in the club’s annual scholarship fund, Irish Life Experience, designed to send a student to Ireland to further their education. He was a co-organizer of the yearly Manhattan Irish Fest. Chris also arranged for blanket and clothing drop offs at the Manteno VA Home. He was also a very devoted Chicago Cubs fan and an avid golfer.
Visitation for Chris Schaal will be held on Sunday, August 21, 2022 from 2-7 p.m. at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home 3200 Black Rd. (at Essington Rd.) Joliet. Funeral services on Monday, August 22, 2022 at 12:00 p.m.at the funeral home chapel. Interment will follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery with full military honors conducted by the United States Navy.
In lieu of flowers, Memorials to the family for a donation in Chris’s name to be made to the Manteno Veteran’s Home would be appreciated.
For more information please call (815) 741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com where you can share a favorite memory or leave a condolence.
