Denice A. Schoen, who worked for the Springs School District for decades as a crossing guard and later a janitor, died of cancer at home in Springs on May 8. She was 65.
She was a single mother, and when her son, Michael Gomez, was growing up she was known as a “motocross mom,” frequently found at the Yaphank track where he raced motocross into his teenage years.
Ms. Schoen finished her career as a janitor at the Montauk School, where she worked until her cancer diagnosis. “She had a strong passion for helping those in need and truly appreciated her job at the Montauk School with all the faculty and students she met along the way,” her son said.
A member of the Springs Fire Department for more than 14 years, she had also served in the Sag Harbor and East Hampton departments before that.
She enjoyed animals, the beach, boats, and bright flowers, “and she absolutely loved her community and hometown,” her son said.
Born at Southampton Hospital on April 7, 1959, to Dennis Schoen and the former Katie Winderl, she grew up in Sag Harbor.
In addition to her son, who lives in Springs, she is survived by a brother, Roy Schoen, and four nieces. Another brother, Georgie Schoen, died before her.
Her son has suggested memorial contributions to the Springs Fire Department, 179 Fort Pond Boulevard, East Hampton 11937.
