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BORN
1942
DIED
2025
Burton Schneider Obituary
Broadcasting was Burt's true passion. His career began at just 15 years old in 1957 as one of Tucson's first FM radio announcers at KTKT-FM. While at Boston University, he contributed to KBUR radio, and during his Navy service, he worked with Armed Forces Radio. Over the decades, Burt held numerous roles in broadcasting, culminating in his position as the afternoon host at KUAZ-FM (NPR) until his retirement in 2018an extraordinary 60 years after his voice first hit Tucson's airwaves.
Alongside his friend Ray Lindstrom, Burt co-founded Zoom Records, Southern Arizona's first record label, and was honored with induction into the Tucson Musicians Museum in 2023. Details at zoomrecords.com. He was also co-owner of Burt Ray Music (BMI) publishing and the Arizona franchise of the Columbia School of Broadcasting.
Burt was brilliant and well-traveled. He visited more than 40 countries and spoke several languages. He held three master's degrees and attended the University of Arizona. Burt was kind, goofy and every time he communicated it was with a song and a dance.
He is survived by his three beloved daughters, Lara Young (Richard), Andrea Matheson "Andy Panda," and Jennifer Ochoa; his grandchildren, Justin Thornton, Nicole and Michelle Ochoa, and Jimmy Matheson; and his great-granddaughter Isla Schaefer. Also, his sister, Patricia Henry-Schneider. His cherished chihuahua, Hazel, was his constant companion in his later years.
Burt left this earthly plane Jan. 27, 2025, at home surrounded by his three great loves, his daughters. He was 82.
Join the family for a memorial celebration of his life Saturday, Feb. 22, 10 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Tucson, 4831 E. 22nd St.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation in Burt's name to the Pima Animal Care Center, friendsofpacc.org.
Memories and Condolences
for Burton Schneider
Henry and Eve Skier
February 17, 2026
LT Schneider was a friend from the time we were on Taiwan together in the service of our Country and for all our times together after. I recorded a tribute to Burt - Echoes in the Sky - and presented it on social media. - lucky to have known Burt.
Miriam Pattison
December 3, 2025
I think of Burt every time I walk past Handmaker (which is often.) I wish I had known that he lived "next door" to me! I would have visited him there.
It was nice seeing Patty at the service.
Lara Young
July 27, 2025
It´s been six months since you left us! We love and miss you!! I know Hazel misses you more than ever and wishes you were here.
Lara Young
June 15, 2025
Missing you on our first Father´s Day without you! Love your girls
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Henry & Eve Skier
March 29, 2025
Burt has been a caring and a thoughtful friend for many years,, and I am sad to know of his passing. I know and I will remember his voice, and the love he had for his family. We almost bought a radio station together, that likely would have allowed Burt and me to forge an even closer friendship. For all that we shared with each other, I am sad to be without him present. May Burt and the memory of his many talents and ways be remembered, and my Burt rest in peace. Henry Skier
Ray Lindstrom
March 23, 2025
One month ago I helped give you a send off as you left this earthly plane. Buddies for 70 years, we were, we are, the Zoom Boys forever. I love you man and I miss you!
Lara Young
March 20, 2025
In 6 days it will be your 83rd birthday our first one without you in this earth! We love and miss you daddy!
Denise Brogna
February 21, 2025
Burt was our neighbor for many years. He loved to stop and talk and he was always cheerful and funny. He had stories to share and he listened to ours too.
We miss your sweet smile, Burt,
Denise Brogna and Tom Tutein
Bill Tannen
February 18, 2025
My deepest condolences go out to Burt´s three daughters, his sister and all their loved ones. Burt was my roommate
at Boston University for one year and introduced me to the exciting world of broadcast radio. He was a marvelous teacher and friend. Our paths crossed over the many years and Burt always had the great zest for knowledge and life.
Peace brother.
Bill Tannen
Rbis
February 17, 2025
I remember burt from high school.
occasionally i would see him at my sister's house.
always a pleasant conversation.
Carol Richelson
February 17, 2025
Our deepest condolences to all of you. Your dad was the nicest neighbor. We enjoyed listening to him on the radio. He was always friendly when we would run into him. You three women
are his legacy. He was always proud of you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Love, Carol and Gary
Miriam Pattison
February 16, 2025
I first knew Burt when I was a pre-schooler at Treehaven (then at Craycroft & Fifth Street.) I kept running into him over the years, and I always enjoyed his weekend stints as the announcer on KUAT-FM 90.5, the Classical station. He almost always commented that he remembered me as having "pigtails" when I was little.
Jennie Ochoa
February 14, 2025
Lara Young
February 13, 2025
Daddy on the eve of Valentine´s Day I miss you more than ever! You always gave your girls cards on that special day! I wish I could hold your hand and hear your voice live once again! Rest in peace sweet dadman!
Suzanne Jameson
February 13, 2025
I never knew Burt, but listened to him many years on KUAT radio. He was knowledgeable and his made for radio voice was always soothing. Godspeed sir. You will be missed.
Ford Burkhart
February 11, 2025
Burt, always a good moment when chatting with you. Happy to hear of your adventures and successes. From Catalina High to a life filled with memorable times. Cheers. Ford
Bruce Ash
February 11, 2025
RIP Burt......you lived a good life and had a great career
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