Arthur Francis Schinaman

Arthur Francis "Art" Schinaman

Arthur Francis Schinaman, affectionately known as Art, shuffled off this mortal coil on January 23, 2026, at the ripe young age of 86. Dropping his anchor at Iredell Memorial Hospital, Art completed his final chapter with the same gusto he brought to every one of his passions.

Born on a chilly December 15th in 1939 in Buffalo, New York, Art was destined for a life filled with warmth and a flair for the festive. He spent over half a century as a proud member of the workforce at Local Union 91, proving that hard hats and humor can coexist. For more than 50 years, Art was a dedicated laborer, constructing not just buildings but lifelong friendships as well.

Art's interests were as colorful as his collection of trains and toy soldiers. A Christmas enthusiast, his home was a veritable winter wonderland for two months out of every year—one month to transform it into a Hallmark holiday special and another to reluctantly return it to its regular state. No Grinch could ever dampen Art's seasonal spirit.

Despite not having children of his own, Art’s heart overflowed with love for his wife Joanne's children, whom he embraced as his own. His genuine affection extended to his ten grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, making him the ultimate grandpa, complete with twinkling eyes and stories of Yankee victories.

A man who called Niagara Falls home for many years, Art was not just a fan of staggering natural beauty but also a die-hard supporter of the New York Yankees. His loyalty to the team rivaled any pinstripe-wearing player.

In August of 1984, fate led him to Joanne, the love of his life, and in a twist straight out of a romantic comedy, they married spontaneously during a vacation in Las Vegas on February 17, 1997. Their union was filled with laughter, love, and more Christmas decorations in their garage than Santa’s workshop.

Art is preceded in death by his stepfather, Louis Paulino; mother, Harriet Schinaman-Paulino; and one son, Kenneth Quarantiello. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Joanne Schinaman; sons Dino Joseph Quarantiello (Susan), Charles Wright (Peggy), and Michael Richard Quarantiello (Sherry); daughter Dina Joanne Quarantiello-Bernat (James); along with ten grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and a host of family and friends who will carry on his legacy with the same zest for life.

Art's journey may have ended, but his spirit—much like his home in December—will remain brilliantly illuminated in our hearts.