Leslie "Les" M. Schneider

Leslie “Les” Martin Schneider, 75, of Fond du Lac, passed away on January 30, 2025, at Edenbrook, Fond du lac, where he resided since September, 2023, when his health declined and he required more care. Les was born on May 26, 1949, to Herbert and Theresa (Ritzke) Schneider at St. Agnes Hospital, Fond du Lac, the third born of 11 children. He was raised in Brothertown, went to Jericho Elementary School, graduated from Chilton High School in 1967, and from MPTC in 1969, with an Associate’s Degree in Accounting. He was employed at Giddings and Lewis his entire career. Les was initially married to Shirley Woelfel and they had two wonderful daughters, Lori and Pam. After their divorce, he married Gloria (Wendt) Bucher, who had one daughter, Jennifer, from her previous marriage. Les and Gloria later had a daughter Kimberly, who was born on his birthday, of which he was so proud! Les' greatest loves were for God and family, and music was his passion! He was so proud of his family and enjoyed attending family events and activities. At a young age, he took piano lessons, but then was self-taught on clarinet, saxophone, and accordion. He began playing with his family, "The Herbie Schneider Band," for many weddings. Through the years, he entertained with various bands, including his brother's "Howard Schneider Big Band," along with his sister, Phyllis. Les also played on his own and later with his mother, Theresa, at various nursing homes which he thoroughly enjoyed. Les loved entertaining, sharing his gift of music, and bringing smiles to so many! His kindness, positive demeanor, generosity, and welcoming attitude demonstrated his love for people. Les had been an active member of Faith Lutheran Church, Fond du Lac, serving on the Board of Elders and as an usher. Les is survived by his wife, Gloria, of 40 years; daughters: Lori Kraus, Atlanta, GA; Pam (Ryan) Gross, Scottsdale, AZ; Jennifer (Greg) Meltz, North Fond du Lac; Kim Schneider, Fond du Lac; his grandchildren: Ashley (Adam) Clark; Abbey Kraus, Alex Kraus, Kaden Gross, Hannah Meltz, Ethan Meltz; and great-granddaughter, Mila Clark. He is further survived by his siblings: Dr. Phyllis Carusos Eastham, Atlanta, GA; Howard Schneider, Gold Canyon, AZ; Wayne (Cynthia) Schneider, Winchester, VA; Stanley Schneider, Gold Canyon, AZ; Dr. Larry (Candie) Schneider, Marietta, GA; Patti (Chuck) Kipfer, Woodstock, GA; Joanne (Doug) Baltz, FDL, WI; Deanna (Brian) Keller, Morganton, NC; Kevin (Holly) Schneider, Marietta, GA; two brothers-in-law: Gary Wendt (Sally Muehlius), FDL, WI; Russ Wendt (Mary Muehlius) Lomira, WI and many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews. Les was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Eugene Schneider, daughter Sandra Schneider, and grandson Luke Kraus. Les lived with music in his heart, humbly sharing his talents and love to all. He genuinely loved people and life. His love for desserts and especially chocolate will be remembered always. He touched many hearts with his kindness, music, and toe tapping tunes. The family wishes to thank the SSM Hospice nurses for their compassionate care and extends heartfelt appreciation and gratitude for the many skilled and attentive staff at Edenbrook. Their sincere respect and loving care was evident. Les knew he was loved by all, and especially appreciated the extra chocolates given to him! The family kindly welcomes friends and relatives on Friday, February 7, 2025, to a visitation at Faith Lutheran Church, 55 Prairie Road, Fond du Lac, WI, from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, followed by the memorial service. Pastor Greg Pufahl will be officiating. Memorials may be directed to Faith Lutheran Church or Winnebago Lutheran Academy.

Leslie "Les" M. Schneider

May 26, 1949 - January 30, 2025