Samuel Schneider

He was born July 16, 1935 the son of Roy and Rita (Friend) Schneider. He married the former Jean Thom in Springfield, June 30, 1957, recently celebrating their 60th anniversary.

Bill retired from Henson-Robinson Company as a sheet metal worker after many years of service. Bill and his family also are well known for their Elephant Ear concession stand, a family business they helped with for many years before becoming the owners in 1993. The business and Bill’s legacy will continue for years to come.

A longtime, devoted and active member of South Side Christian Church, he was happy to help wherever needed, attended lunches and was a self-proclaimed greeter. Bill could be found at any given time greeting members and visitors, making them feel welcomed and comfortable. He was known for his stories, infectious smile and was always whistling a tune, some well-known, and some he made up along the way. Although a craftsman with sheet metal, Bill also enjoyed working with wood. His yard was meticulously maintained with a special talent for growing roses. Bill loved his family, and his church. They were his life and greatest joy. As an avid Cubs fan, he especially enjoyed watching the game with family and friends.

Surviving are his wife Jean, his son, William “Bill” (wife Kathy) Schneider, of Springfield, his two daughters; Mary Lou (Tod) Keltner of Virginia Beach, VA, and Laurie (Bob) Ratsch of Springfield, his 10 grandchildren: Derrick (Stephanie) Keltner of Chesapeake, VA, Kyle Schneider of Cape Girardeau, MO, Jason (Sarah) Keltner of San Antonio, TX, Josh Schneider of New Lenox, IL, Amy Keltner of Virginia Beach, VA, Ryan (fiancé Katie) Schneider of Naperville, IL, Sam Keltner of Virginia Beach, VA, Joseph, Abby and Anna Ratsch all of Springfield. He has three great grandchildren: Caleb, Macy, and Camden. Bill is also survived by his sister, Barbara (Norval) Melton of Springfield. There are several nieces, nephews and cousins. His parents and a sister, Jean Holland preceded him in death.

Cremation Rites will be accorded by Bisch Crematory.

A celebration of life service will be held at South Side Christian Church 2600 S. MacArthur, Springfield, IL at 5:00 pm Sunday, September 3, 2017. Pastor Brooks Wilson will officiate. The family will greet family and friends following the service in the community center at the church. Inurnment will be private at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to South Side Christian Church 2600 S. MacArthur, Springfield, IL 62704

Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischfuneralhome.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.

Bisch Funeral Home West is honored to serve the Schneider family 544-5424