Dean Winston Schoenfeld's Obituary
Dean Winston Schoenfeld, 81, of Gainesville, FL passed away Sunday, April 19, 2026, in Gainesville, FL. Dean was born April 6, 1945, in Worcester, MA to Paul J. and Barbara L. Bohaker Schoenfeld. He proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War and returned to earn his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Florida. Dean met and married the love of his life, Orene Vaughn Schoenfeld, and together they had two sons of whom he was very proud. He worked most of his professional life as a professor at the University of Florida with his most recent work being in the area of radiological engineering and hazardous environment robotics, retiring after more than 30 years of service.
Dean was a longtime member of First Presbyterian Church in Gainesville where he sang in the choir, served multiple terms as an elder helping with the sanctuary renovation and organ installation projects, and was a regular participant in annual trips to Montreat. He was active in the Gainesville Lions Club for many years participating in their fundraising events, including Gatornationals and BBQ dinners. Earlier in his life he enjoyed playing softball and racquetball, later turning to boating, fishing, traveling across the country in their RV, and spending time birdwatching and quilting with his wife. Dean is survived by his wife of nearly 55 years, Orene Schoenfeld, sons Winston (Magda) Schoenfeld and Gordon (Julee) Schoenfeld; and six grandchildren, Jakob, Lukas, Aleks, Ryan, Connor, and Amelia. Also surviving are many extended family members, colleagues, and friends. All who knew and loved him will miss his presence in their lives.
A Memorial Service to honor the life of Dean Schoenfeld will be held Friday, May 1, 2026, at 11am at First Presbyterian Church, 106 SW 3rd Street, Gainesville, FL 32601, with Rev. Mark Hults officiating. In lieu of flowers please consider a memorial donation to First Presbyterian Church at https://www.1stpc.org
What’s your fondest memory of Dean?
What’s a lesson you learned from Dean?
Share a story where Dean's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Dean you’ll never forget.
How did Dean make you smile?