Erwin Joseph Schäli, 94, of Oakdale, California, passed away peacefully on November 15, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born on September 29, 1931, in El Centro, CA, to John and Agnes Schäli, Erwin grew up in a close-knit family that instilled in him the values of hard work, loyalty, and kindness – principles that would guide him throughout his long and meaningful life. He carried a deep pride in his Swiss heritage, a heritage that shaped his character, his traditions, and the way he welcomed others with an open heart and a generous spirit.
Erwin is survived by his devoted wife, Sonya Schäli, with whom he shared a loving partnership built on mutual respect, laughter, and unwavering support. He is also survived by his children Nanette Schäli-Kalouris, Philip Schäli, Lorie Arnebeck, and Jeff Bjorge. His memory will continue to live on in his siblings, Agnes Alves, Carl Schäli, and Fritz Schäli, as well as his 11 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him immense pride and joy. Erwin was preceded in death by his beloved brother John Schäli and daughter, Gillian Layton, whose memory he carried close to his heart.
A proud United States Army veteran, Erwin served his country with honor before embarking on a long and successful career as the owner and manager of a trucking company in Oakdale. He was known as a fair, hardworking, and dependable businessman – attributes that earned him the respect of colleagues, customers, and friends throughout the community.
Beyond his professional life, Erwin gave generously of his time and talents to numerous organizations. He was an active member of the Freemasons, Job’s Daughters, Eastern Star, Caritas, and the California Trucking Association. He held deep ties to his heritage and community, serving as a lifetime member of the Ripon Swiss Club and the Oakdale Lions Club, where he formed lifelong friendships and contributed to the betterment of his community.
At home, Erwin was happiest outdoors, tending to his garden, nurturing plants with a patience and care that mirrored the way he treated the people in his life. His laughter – warm, contagious, and unmistakable – was a constant presence at family gatherings, holidays, and the everyday moments he cherished most. Family was the center of Erwin’s world, and he devoted himself fully to creating a home filled with love, guidance, and lasting memories.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, December 3 at River Oak Grace Church in Oakdale at 12pm. Family and friends are invited to gather, share stories, and honor the legacy of a man who touched countless lives with his kindness, generosity, and enduring spirit.
The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to Serenity Hill Residential Care in Oakdale and Community Hospice in Hughson for their dedicated and compassionate care during Erwin’s final months. Their support provided comfort and peace to both Erwin and his loved ones.
Erwin will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his legacy of love, integrity, and laughter will continue to live on in the many lives he touched.
The Oakdale (Calif.) Leader
The Riverbank (Calif) News
Nov. 26, 2025
