Louise Anne Schneider Milder

Louise Anne Milder, age 76, died peacefully on February 15, 2016 after a relatively short fight with cancer. Louise was born to Herman & Rose Schneider on May 27, 1939 in Cleveland Ohio. She had a bachelor’s degree from Ohio University & a master’s degree in Urban & Regional Planning from the University of Virginia. Louise retired from the Fairfax County Department of Housing & Community Development where she was the Associate Director of Real Estate Finance. She worked as a private consultant on implementing housing policies. Louise had a varied work history including computer programmer, private consultant & housing/real estate specialist.

Louise is survived by her husband of 54 years, Nelson Milder, two sons, Seth (Lindsey Golden) & Craig; her sister, Carol (Peter) Carstensen, her brother, Dr. Richard (Pauline) Schneider, brother-in-law, Martin (Barbara) Milder, sister-in-law, Donnajeanne (Dr. Lawrence) Ettkin, brother-in-law, Kenneth, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins – as well as a “granddog” Puppers.

Louise loved people, making lifelong friends wherever she went. Family was important to her. She was one of the initiators, & sustainers of the biennial reunion of her family. She delighted in the diversity of her extended family. She traveled great distances to attend graduations & weddings of nieces, nephews, cousins & friends.

Louise was a political activist and an advocate for affordable housing. She served as an Election Official at the polls for many years and voted in every election.

Louise was an avid bridge player – participating in two regular groups, one of which has lasted for 40 years. She loved traveling, going out to eat & reading, especially mysteries. Louise leaves a large group of close friends - colleagues from work, neighbors, & bridge players – who provided incredible support & love during the time she was ill.

A celebration of Louise’s life will be held later this year, in the spring; date, place & time are not yet set. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made: to the family in support of a memorial bench to be placed at Lake Braddock; or to Silent Spring Institute (320 Nevada Street, #302, Newton MA 02460) which supports research on environmental causes of cancer.