Wayne Schneider, 85, of Schofield, passed away on November 26, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Wayne was born on October 27, 1939, in Merrill, WI to Henry and Laura Schneider. Wayne grew up in the Town of Pine River. Wayne was known for his bright smile, hearty laugh, jokes, his willingness to always lend a hand to help anyone in need and his unwavering love and support for his family. We will forever miss that sweet, somewhat mischievous, Grandpa smile, but we are blessed to always hold his unconditional love deep within our hearts.

Wayne graduated from Merrill High School. He was united in marriage to his loving wife, Joan Schneider (Rohacek), on August 27, 1960, in Deerbrook, WI. They had 64 blessed years together. Wayne was a proud and loving father of their 2 sons, Jeffrey and Gary. Wayne was the beloved grandpa for his 5 grandchildren, Amanda, Michael, Cody, Cheyenne and Mariah. He was thrilled to become a great grandfather to Winter and looked forward to the arrival of his newest great grandson, Coleson, due before the new year.

Wayne worked for Drott Manufacturing Company for many years before attending North Central Technical College and graduating with an Associate degree in Accounting. Wayne worked for the City of Wausau as an assessor up until his retirement. Even after retirement, he continued to work part time as an independent contracted assessor for the City of Wausau. Wayne served on the Board of Directors for the Wausau City Employees Credit Union for many years.

Wayne lived a life of service to his community in many ways. Wayne served on the Schofield Fire Department for many years as a volunteer fire fighter and EMT. He also served as both the Captain and Assistant Chief of the Schofield Fire Department and was the first EMT in the area. In addition, he was on the Fire Prevention Committee and a member of the Marathon County Arson Investigators along with Marathon City Fire & Rescue.

Wayne was committed to reaching out with a helping hand to anyone in need, through his personal life and through his work with the United Way. Wayne was actively involved in the initial creation of the Employee Assistance Program. He was a dedicated blood donor for the Marathon County Blood Bank, donating countless pints of blood through the years. When his two sons were young, he served on the Boy Scout Committees and as a Badge Counselor.

Wayne had many various areas of interest throughout his life. As a Member of the Wausau Antique Auto Club, he enjoyed sharing his love of vintage vehicles through going to car shows with family. Wayne loved collecting a variety of things throughout his life. He collected matchbooks and vinyl records/albums, among other things. Wayne loved spending time outdoors, working around his home and in the garden he and his wife planted each year.

Wayne's greatest treasure, though, was time spent with his family. He loved, protected and supported his family fiercely and unconditionally. He was a man who loved a good meal, especially if it was shared in the presence of those he treasured and ended with dessert. He loved travailing with his wife and kids, always meeting people and sharing stories, making friends easily and with joy.

Wayne is survived by his wife Joan, son Gary, grandchildren Amanda (Sam), Michael, and Cody Schneider, Cheyenne (Cole) Pannell and Mariah (Kenny) Stoner, great granddaughter Winter and soon-to-be born great grandson Coleson Pannell. He is further survived by his daughter-in-law, Robyn Schneider, nephews Jack Novak and Ed (Natasha) Novak, great nephew John Novak and numerous cousins.

Wayne was preceded in death by his son Jeffrey, parents Henry and Laura Schneider, in-laws Michael (Rose) Rohacek and John (Rosemarie) Novak.

A celebration of life is going to be held Saturday August 23, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm at Rothschild City Hall.

John J. Buettgen Funeral Home is assisting family with arrangements.