Kenneth Karl Schneider

Kenneth Karl Schneider, a beacon of love and commitment, peacefully departed this life on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at the Cedar Valley Hospice Home. Surrounded by his cherished wife, Mildred “Millie” Gee Schneider, and devoted family, he finished his earthly journey at the age of 86.

Born on May 4, 1939, in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, Kenneth was the beloved son of Karl and Margaret (Fink) Schneider. He graduated from Oshkosh High School in 1957, ready to embrace the world with an adventurous spirit. On April 11, 1959, he made the noble decision to enlist in the United States Air Force. Kenneth served his country honorably until his discharge on August 16, 1961.

Returning home, Kenneth spent time as a “railroad bum” before finding his calling with the City of Oshkosh. In 1969, he married Sharon Lewallen, with whom he welcomed a beautiful daughter, Robin. Though their paths diverged, Kenneth's heart remained open for new beginnings.

In 1975, fate led Kenneth to meet Millie while he was working as a traveling salesman. Their connection blossomed over coffee dates, and even distance could not diminish Kenneth’s affection for Millie. He penned many letters during his time in Michigan, reminding Millie of his feelings—and in a grand gesture of love, he sent money to a friend to buy her a gift. Following that heartfelt exchange, Kenneth decided to return to Waterloo and propose to Millie. They exchanged vows on April 18, 1976, Easter Sunday, blending their families into an unbreakable union that lasted more than 50 years.

Their lives took Kenneth and Millie to Wisconsin in 1980, where Kenneth worked as a locksmith for the local bank and eventually went to work for Professional Senior Living Management. In 2005, they returned to Waterloo, where Kenneth diversified his work across various roles for Land of Lark Margin Plant, Mariette Hotel in Waterloo, and sewing machine business. He was a jack of all trades. He even dedicated himself warmly to the church he held dear.

Kenneth discovered a path of personal transformation when he found the Lord. This turning point opened the door to healing a fractured relationship he had with his daughter, Robin. One knows the trying times it can be when one parent is remarried, and families become blended. The phone calls became fewer, and contact was very sparse. On April 15, 2012, in a moment that changed everything, Kenneth and Robin reunited. The joy they felt was palpable, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. Kenneth’s pride blossomed when he traveled to Alabama in 2013 to meet his grandsons, embracing his role as a grandfather with open arms and a heart full of love. It was a proud moment, one that filled him with happiness and reaffirmed the bonds of family.

Kenneth found immense joy in the simplicity of life, particularly spending time on his son's farm outside Dewar. There, he enjoyed shooting targets and celebrating holidays alongside his family, who delighted in providing feasts that brought everyone together. However, it was Kenneth's love for Millie that shone brightest; they were seldom apart and thrived on each other’s companionship.

Kenneth bravely faced the challenges brought on by COVID-19 but, with resilience, overcame it after 180 days, reuniting with Millie, although his health subtly shifted thereafter. Known for his spirited approach to life, the necessary slowdown was a challenge for him.

Kenneth is preceded in death by his parents, Karl and Margaret Schneider; sister, Shirley Lund; brother, Ronald Schneider; nephew, AJ Lund; and grandson, Tylan Schneider, two bonus children, Merle Bell and Janese Kay. 

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Millie, of Waterloo, Iowa; one daughter, Robin Drury of Alabama; two bonus daughters,  Lauana Chuzles of Wisconsin, and Donna Lemmer of Wisconsin; two bonus sons, Warren Bell just outside of Waterloo, and Troy Alix of Wisconsin; one grandson, Logan Drury of Alabama; two great-grandchildren, Kaden Groom and Tylan Travelor Miles Drury, both of Alabama; as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family who will forever cherish his memory.

A memorial service to celebrate Kenneth's remarkable life will be held on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at the Apostolic Church of the Cedar Valley, located at 1645 Downing Ave, Waterloo, Iowa.

As we say goodbye to Kenneth, we are reminded of the indelible mark he left on our hearts and the love he so freely shared with those around him.