Alan was born to the late Cleo (née Kuzelka) and Frederick Schneider on June 20th,1946 in Oak Park, Illinois. He later attended The University of Illinois at Chicago Circle, now University of Illinois Chicago, to study architecture. During his time there, he joined the Tau Alpha Rho fraternity, and though the fraternity later folded, the friendships Alan formed with his brothers were lifelong. He met the love of his life, Cindy, while they were both in a group of potential jurors who played dominos while waiting to be called. Cindy and Alan hit it off, and the pair were married for 49 years, during which they were loving caregivers for eight shelter cats.
Alan’s architectural career was prolific, and he designed several small buildings, grocery stores, and car washes. When he wasn’t working, Alan enjoyed a wide variety of pastimes and adventures. Alan and Cindy traveled extensively and have many fond memories of time in Europe, China, and Russia (during a small window when travel was allowed). They also shared a deep love of the arts and were frequent patrons of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Ravinia, and The Art Institute of Chicago. He was also passionate about his favorite teams - the Chicago White Sox, Bears, Bulls, and Blackhawks. Alan also prioritized being active and remained a motivated athlete by swimming, running, and biking. He joined the Wheeling Wheel Man Bicycle Club and loved taking cycling-focused vacations.
Alan’s love of life and kind spirit will be fondly remembered by all whose lives he touched. His friends and family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to Abington Glenview and Serenity Hospice for their compassionate care.
Visitation will take place from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm on Thursday, August 6th, 2026 at Oehler Funeral Home, 2099 Miner Street, Des Plaines, Illinois, with a funeral service immediately to follow at the same location. Interment will take place at Ridgewood Memorial Park in Des Plaines, Illinois. For more information, please call (847) 824-5155.
