Former Teacher Of The Year In Berkeley Passes Away

ISLAND HEIGHTS, NJ — Lois M. Schoeck, a former Berkeley teacher, died Wednesday at Community Medical Center in Toms River. Schoeck, 80, earned "Teacher of the Year" for 1991-92.

Schoeck taught in West Orange, Bloomfield and South Brunswick, as well as the Conservation and Environmental Studies Center in Whitesbog, according to her obituary.

She retired from the Berkeley Township School District after 34 years of service. Schoeck taught fifth grade and was the stokes coordinator for the H & M Potter School.

Schoeck also enjoyed working at summer residential camps and served as the recreation director in Island Heights for several years. She was an American Red Cross-certified water safety instructor. Schoeck also loved bowling and was president of the Ladies Independent League at Berkeley Lanes.

After retiring, Schoeck became the co-founder and advisor to the Potter Creek Crusaders, an after-school group of sixth-graders dedicated to protecting their local environment. She shared her knowledge of the environment and photography skills with students and colleagues, resulting in several publications of their work.

Lois was the only child of Helen and George Schoeck. She is survived by her cousins Richard Gaugler, Margaret Swartzbaugh, Andrew Gaugler, Roberta Conner, Joanne Sweet and their families, her good friend Betty Pennell, her godson Andrew Parks, her extended family and many friends and associates.

Visitation will take place from 5-7 p.m. Friday at the Carmona-Bolen Home for Funerals (412 Main St., Toms River). A funeral service will be held at 7 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Burial will occur Saturday at the East Ridgelawn Cemetery located in Clifton.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to an environmental program of your choosing.

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