Eli Schindler
TALCOTTVILLE- With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Eli Schindler, a man whose greatest accomplishments were not the things he built, but the family and friendships he made along the way.
He was born on May 20, 1947, in Constableville, a son of Joseph E. and Margaret Albertson Schindler. Eli grew up on Mohawk Hill and graduated from Constableville High School with the class of 1967. Following graduation, he made his career in the construction industry and was a proud 58-year member of Laborers’ Local 35. Eli operated heavy equipment, and there wasn’t much he couldn’t build, repair, or figure out. If something was broken, everyone knew exactly who to call. Eli was hardworking, dependable, quick-witted, and famous for giving those he loved a hard time. On October 2, 1971, he married Beverly Myers at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Constableville.
Around Eli, a little good-natured teasing was just another way of saying, “I care about you.” He had a knack for making people laugh, lending a helping hand, and leaving every place and every person a little better than he found them…and with a broader vocabulary.
He greatly enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, construction work, playing pitch, old country music, and making maple syrup. Eli also took pleasure in volunteering at the New York State Woodsmen’s Field Days, where he helped run the grease pole climb and beard contests.
Eli was a devoted husband, an incredible father, a proud grandfather and great-grandfather, a loving brother, and a loyal friend.
He leaves behind his beloved wife of 55 years, Beverly Schindler; his daughters, Susan Case (Norman Fey) and Sheri Underwood; six cherished grandchildren; and two treasured great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Roxie Higby and Mary (Rick) Chase; his brother, Bill (Phyliss) Schindler; his sister-in-law, Barb Schindler; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless dear friends who became family.
Eli was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Margaret Schindler; infant daughter, Darlene; his brother, Wayne Schindler; his brother-in-law, Myles Higby; and his son-in-law, Kevin Underwood.
Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing that his legacy lives on in every lesson he taught, every laugh he shared, every project he completed, and every life he touched.
We can only imagine that Heaven has already found its best grade foreman, estimator, superintendent, heavy equipment operator, mechanic, and all-around problem solver. If something up there needs fixing, he’s probably already on it with a grin, a clever remark, and a few people laughing while he gets the job done.
We will miss him more than words could ever express, but we will carry his strength, his work ethic, his humor, and his love with us always.
Calling hours will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at Mills Funeral Home, 301 Post Street, Boonville. Following calling hours, all are invited to the Boonville VFW for a gathering. Food donations may be dropped off at the VFW beginning at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday. Memorial contributions in his name may be made to the Boonville Volunteer Fire Company and Ambulance Fund, P.O. Box 164, Boonville, NY 13309.
Condolences may be shared with Eli’s family online at www.millsfuneralhomes.com.