passed away on Tuesday, November 5, 2024.
Loving husband of Lisa Schneider (nee Volz) of 64 years; beloved father of Monika (Norwood Hall) and Christopher Schneider; dearest son of the late Michael and Eva Schneider (nee Sollmann); dear Opa of Erich, Andrea, Colin Schneider; brother of Hilda (the late Franz) Frank; brother-in-law of Wolfgang Volz; our dear uncle, cousin and friend many.
Nick was born in Yugoslavia on the brink of WW2. He took his first job when Partisans came in and occupied their town. His father was conscripted to Russia, so at age 5, he became an errand boy for the soldiers, which allowed him to provide scraps for his family. Witnessing the hardships of war-torn Europe, at such a young age, shaped his understanding of the world. He was determined, resilient, and carried with him an unyielding positive spirit. He appreciated the simple things in life: food, family, soccer, music, the sun on his face. He didn’t need much to feel blessed on this Earth. In 1952, his family was able to emigrate to the US, bringing with them little more than hope, the lesson of perseverance, and the drive to build a better life. He worked tirelessly to establish himself in a new land, quickly mastering the language and taking advantage of every opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. At 16, he started an after school apprenticeship, at a machine shop. He worked his way up quickly and earned a permanent position, and then married his sweetheart Lisa in 1960. Eventually they purchased the company, where he worked for 67 years. His commitment to his family and his work ethic were the cornerstones of his life. Above all, he was a humble and devoted family man. He cherished his role as husband, father and grandfather. His love and guidance were a constant source of strength and admiration, and he took great pride in watching his kids and grandkids learn and grow. We will miss him dearly, but will continue on by carrying his beautiful and undeterred spirit close to our hearts, always.
Service Monday, November 11, 10:00 a.m. at KUTIS AFFTON CHAPEL, 10151 Gravois Rd. Interment Sunset Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be be given to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave. Floor 17 Chicago, IL 60601. https://www.alz.org/ Visitation Sunday 4:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Nick was the best boss I ever had. He never minded giving a helping hand if needed and a really hands on boss. Work was his love, But not the only, very much in love with Lisa, his kids, and grandkids and all his family. He didn’t stop there though, he really cared about his employees! He listened, and if you had a good idea that he liked he might use it. He, even though he was owner and boss, you always felt his respect for you as a human being and the love for what he wanted to accomplish. For me, Nick accomplished everything he tried to: marriage, family, business, friendships and respect from all of the above! Love, Stubby
Nick was as fine a man as I have ever had the privilege to know. His kindness and quiet humility were among his many qualities that impressed me for the many years that I knew him. I know soccer was one of his favorite pass times and he played for the German Team for years. My brother was the president of the St. Louis Soccer Hall of fame and had played against Nick. Ray wanted Nick inducted into the Hall, but we couldn’t get Nick to fill out the application. Such a humble man! Though I am not much younger than Nick, I admired him as a role model. Nick made the world a better place.
A wonderful tribute to wonderful man. May your fond memories of him carry you thru this difficult time. My deepest sympathy to the Schneider family on your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.