SCHNEIDER, Kenneth Lowell 1943-2013

SCHNEIDER, FREIBURG, ELWELL, MONSON

Posted By: COUNTY COORDINATOR
Date: 1/8/2014 at 00:22:03

Kenneth ‘Ken’ Schneider

Kenneth “Ken” Schneider, 70, died peacefully at his home with his family at his side Saturday, December 28, 2013, in Charles City after his long and courageous battle with COPD and cardiac complications.

A memorial service for Ken Schneider will be 11 a.m. Saturday, January 11, 2014, at the Hauser Funeral Home in Charles City. Sister Diana Blong and Sister Ruth Ann Schneider will officiate. Inurnment will be in Riverside Cemetery at Charles City. Friends may call one hour prior to the service at the funeral home on Saturday.

The family extends special thanks to his caring staff and volunteers from Hospice of North Iowa, and his indispensable team of other caregivers who were all such a blessing during Ken’s final months.

Kenneth Lowell Schneider was born June 3, 1943, in Breckenridge, Minnesota, to Catherine and Joseph Schneider. Ken grew up in a large family who farmed in the Fergus Falls, Minnesota, area until he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1960.

He served in the Vietnam War and continued his military service until he retired from the Air Force as a technical sergeant after 20 years. Following his military retirement, Ken went on to earn a diploma in the building trades and became a self-employed licensed carpenter.

In 1983, Ken married Joan Freiburg, the love of his life, and they made their home together in Charles City.

Ken was known for his canning – especially dill pickles, sauerkraut and salsa – and his gardening. People knew which place was Ken’s by the flowers blooming outside. Ken loved to visit folks, tell stories and exhibited a memorable dry sense of humor. Most of all, Ken was known for his generous and determined spirit.

Living family members include his daughter, ToniLyn Monson (from his first marriage to Linn Elwell) of Salt Lake City, Utah; nine sisters; four brothers; along with numerous nieces, nephews, other family members and friends, especially his devoted friend Jerry Hulbert.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Joan; parents; and three brothers.

The Hauser Funeral Home, 641-228-2323, in Charles City, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.hauserfh.com.

Source: Charles City Press, 7 JAN 2014