Donald Schoeppner

Donald Schoeppner, a longtime resident of Burlingame and San Mateo, died at home Dec. 17, 2011 after losing his fight against cancer.

He was born in San Francisco on July 14, 1925. He grew up with his parents and brother, Bob, in Burlingame. He attended Burlingame High School. After returning from the Navy in 1946, he continued his education at San Mateo Junior College.

Don married Shirley Cook in 1949. They moved to Southern California where he graduated from Los Angeles College of Optometry.

They returned to Northern California in 1952 where he had a successful optometric practice in South San Francisco which he retired from in 1994.

He was a beloved husband (Shirley preceded him in death), brother to Bob Schoeppner, father to Nancy Stewart and Susan Harvey and grandfather to Sean and Jessica Harvey.

He will be remembered as an avid gardener, craftsman and hiker. His passion for the garden produced many fruit, vegetables and flowers for friends and family. He loved to travel and was lucky to see much of the world. He spent many days at his cabin in Dorrington which he shared with his brother. He had a wonderful sense of humor and was known as a prankster to many people. He will be truly missed by all those that loved him including his beautiful dog Lana. He brought a smile to everyone’s face with his kindness and quick wit.

In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to the California State Park Foundation. Memorial services to be held 1 p.m.-4 p.m. Feb. 4, 2012 at the San Mateo Senior Center, 2645 Alameda de las Pulgas.