Obituary of Joan Reisert Schuhlein

Schuhlein, Joan Marie (née Reisert) matriarch of an extensive and beloved family died peacefully in their presence on January 2nd 2023 in Melbourne, Florida, at age 91.  Born in Brooklyn NY in 1931 she was the second of three children (& only daughter) of the late Clara and Mathias Reisert, and maintained homes in New York and Florida for much of her life.  Joan and her late husband, Charles M. Schuhlein (1928-2004) devoted their lives and love to their four children and their spouses, as well as their beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Joan loved to be with people and was renowned for her great generosity in assisting those in need, whether material or spiritual.  Her organizational skill and boundless good cheer were legendary as she excelled in planning and hosting innumerable gatherings, parties, picnics and social events for family and friends as long as anyone can remember.  As the reigning matriarch of the 425-member Pfennig Family of Brooklyn NY origins, Joan has been a devoted and highly visible mainstay for most of the past 75 years. Her dedication to family was matched only by her lifelong love and devotion to her Catholic faith and, especially, to the Capuchin Order one of whose members is Joan’s younger brother, Rev. Gregory Reisert, OFM Cap. In addition to Rev. Reisert, Joan is survived by daughters Lori (Kevin) Malloy, Jean (Peter) McAnulty, Lynn (Russell) Kliem, and son Paul (Shannon) Schuhlein, 11 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. 

A private memorial service to honor and celebrate Joan’s life and faith is planned for later this year. Donations in memory of Joan can be made to the Rev. Gregory Reisert Scholarship Burse, Capuchin Development Office, 110 Shonnard Place, Yonkers, NY 10703.