Emil Schneider

On Sunday, November 13, 2022, Emil John Schneider Jr., loving husband and father of two children, passed away at the age of 74 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Emil was born in Schenectady, NY on December 10, 1947. Although he grew up in the city, he and his sister JoAnna enjoyed family camp time in Schroon Lake, NY, and he continued the camping tradition with his own family, so that even his grandchildren could appreciate one of his favorite pastimes.

Upon graduating from Linton High School in 1965, Emil attended and graduated from Valparaiso University in Indiana. His concentrated studies included math, history and German language. His love of soccer and the outdoors brought him to Saranac Lake where he was a teacher at Saranac Lake High School for 34 years. He took his soccer experience playing here and in Germany and started the SLHS boys’ soccer team. In addition to coaching and teaching, Herr Schneider served in the Saranac Lake Teachers Association in several capacities, including president. Emil retired from teaching in 2004 but never stopped working. He continued with his business as a general contractor.

While building his career, Emil built his family. While serving in the U.S. Army, he met and married Edith (Reinhardt) Schneider, his wife of 50 years, in 1972 in Crailsheim, Germany. Upon moving back to Saranac Lake, they raised two children, Nicol and Kyle. When his children married, Nicol to Jason Wamsganz and Kyle to Alison (Jaquith), Emil was instrumental in helping them build their own homes. Over the years, Emil, proud Opa to Patrick, Lydia, Anika, and Sawyer, enjoyed watching his grandchildren grow and learn how to waterski, drive a tractor, play sports and various instruments, and excel in school.

A man of few words, Emil spent his time working and helping anyone he could. He was a champion of the underdog, advocate of truth and honesty, and a man of solid work ethic who loved his family.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home, 20 Church Street, Saranac Lake, NY 12983. Calling hours will be held on Friday November 18, 2022 from 4pm to 7pm at the Funeral Home, the family will hold a private funeral service at their convenience with Pastor Eric Olsen officiating. Family and friends wishing to remember Emil John Schneider, Jr can send contributions to the Saranac Lake Volunteer Rescue Squad or to the Saranac Lake High School Prize Fund (for a scholarship in Emil’s name) in care of the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home. Family and friends can also share a memory, send a condolence and sign the on-line guest book at www.fortunekeoughfuneralhome.com.