HUTCHINSON, Kan. — CrossPoint Church in Hutchinson was filled to capacity Monday morning as friends, family and military personnel celebrated the life of Christina Schoenecker. The 26-year-old Army Reserve soldier died in a non-combat incident in Iraq Feb. 19.

The service included the Fallen Soldier Tribute from the Tornado Alley Young Marines as well as a standing ovation to honor Schoenecker and those who serve. A picture slideshow before the service displayed her love of fishing and family.

The Rev. Steve Gill spoke on behalf of Schoenecker’s teachers and coaches who remembered her outgoing personality and toughness:

 

 

One of Schoenecker’s friends, Tasha Miller, talked of her friend’s willingness to help others. While Tina — as Schoenecker was known to friends and family — had a tough exterior, she also had a soft spot in her heart for others:

 

The sermon was presented by the Rev. Dennis Wallace, who talked about Schoenecker’s love of art and her artistic abilities:

 

Schoenecker’s flag-draped casket was brought to the church, escorted by the Patriot Guard, which also led the procession to the Arlington City Cemetery where Schoenecker was laid to rest with full military honors from the Fort Riley Honor Guard.

Schoenecker was a human resources specialist who joined the Army in 2009. She was promoted to sergeant in January 2015 and was completing her first deployment at the time of her death. Her awards include the Army Achievement Medal with one oak leaf cluster and the Army Reserve Achievement Medal with two oak leaf clusters.

Schoenecker grew up in the Arlington area and was a 2010 graduate of Fairfield High School.