It is with deep sorrow and much love that we announce the sudden passing of a beloved husband, father and grandfather, Kenneth Harvey “Shiny” Schontz, of Butler, who left us unexpectedly on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at the age of 76.
Born in Butler on June 26, 1948, he was a son of the late Harvey and Anna Beck Schontz.
A proud veteran of the United States Navy, he served with honor and courage.
Ken lived a life filled with integrity, laughter, and deep devotion to his family and country, and he carried those same values into every chapter of his life.
After returning from the Navy, Ken worked at Ray Andre Tire for a few years. He then was employed at Armco in the Melt Shop and retired on April 8, 2011, with 42 years of service.
Following retirement, he worked at Suncrest Golf Course for 12 years.
He was a member of St. Mark the Evangelist Parish, Holy Sepulcher Roman Catholic Church.
Ken had an unwavering work ethic and a love of life’s simple joys. He loved being outside doing just about anything around the house, or on the golf course trying to chase the perfect round. Wednesday evenings were usually spent at the bowling alley, where he did finally bowl a 300 game!
But more than anything, Ken cherished his role as a husband, father, and grandfather. He loved his wife and daughters dearly, but his grandkids were the light of his life. He was their biggest fan, always cheering them on at school events. Pap-Pap’s hugs will be dearly missed.
He is survived by his loving wife, Victoria Allen Schontz, whom he married March 28, 1969; three daughters, Sheri Morgan and her husband, Frank, Traci Ritson and her husband, Doug, and Amy Dickson and her husband, Travis; his treasured grandchildren, Jared Glenz, Isabel Dickson, Troy Ritson, and Olivia Dickson; one sister, Nina Gombash; and many extended family members and friends.
Along with his parents, Ken was preceded in death by one brother, Richard J. Schontz.
Friends will be received in the Martin Funeral Home, Inc., Downtown, 201 E. Cunningham St., Butler, on Sunday from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
A Blessing Service will immediately follow at 1 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home, with Rev. David Schmidt, of St. Mark the Evangelist Parish, Holy Sepulcher Roman Catholic Church officiating.
Burial will be in Butler County Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to Honor Flight, PO Box 266, West Sunbury, PA 16061.