Obituary: John C. Schneider

John C. Schneider, age 72, of Hilbert, died surrounded by his family on Thursday, October 3, 2024 at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Appleton following a short, but courageous battle with Leukemia.  He was born January 5, 1952 in Fond du Lac, son of the late Henry Nicholas & Odelia E. “Odie” (Woelfel) Schneider.  He married Mary Jo Kamasky on January 25, 1974 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Appleton.

Throughout his working career, Big John tended to his dairy herd in Hilbert.  He was a longtime member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Hilbert where he also helped maintain and oversee the operations of the parish cemetery.  

In the summer months, John loved time spent on the golf course swinging the sticks and going for bicycle rides with Joey.  He looked forward to vacations and traveling but especially enjoyed time behind the wheel of his red Firebird getting a delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Blizzard at the local Dairy Queen.  He was always willing to sit down and watch sports on the television, but Big John truly had a passion for watching his children and his grandchildren in action at their chosen sports.  

As a social and talkative person, John looked forward to family gatherings and joining his many friends at local establishments where they could share stories over cold drinks and good laughs.  And although he was no Bob Vila, John cherished his family above all else and would do anything he could for each and every one of them.  

Survivors include his wife of 50 years: Mary Jo; his children: Heather (Brad) Lutes, Michelle (Dave) Puls, Scott (Wendy) Schneider; his grandchildren: Nick Lutes and his special friend, Erin, Bailey Lutes, Ella Puls, Brady Puls, Tarik Schneider & Deagan Schneider; his siblings: Ron (Donna) Schneider, Janet (Milan) Deprez, Roger (Georgie) Schneider, Alfred (Bonnie) Schneider, Gerald “Jake” Schneider, Mark (Peggy) Schneider, Gloria (Jeff) Schwabenlander, Dave (Paula) Schneider; and his siblings-in-law: Bob (Karen) Kamasky, Tony (Jeri) Kamasky, Tom (Ann) Kamasky, & Ed (Robin) Kaczmarczyk.  He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.  

John was preceded in death by his parents; his parents-in-law: Ed & Mary Kamasky; and his brother: Lyle Schneider.  

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 2:30 pm on Tuesday, October 15, 2024 at St. Mary Catholic Church (108 S. 6th St) in Hilbert with Rev. Michael Betley officiating.  A time of visitation will be held at the church from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm on Tuesday, October 15, 2024. Those wishing to attend the visitation or the service are encouraged to dress casually.   At the time of the service and following, there will be a link available at wietingfuneralhome.com for those wishing to watch a live stream or archived recording of the service, watch a memorial video, or see photos of the flowers and gifts given to the family.  

In lieu of flowers, memorials given in the name of John C. Schneider are greatly appreciated for Special Olympics Wisconsin in memory of his brother, Lyle, and Big John's love of sports.  Those wishing to donate online may do so by visiting https://specialolympicswisconsin.org/give/