Gary Lee Schneider

Gary Lee Schneider was born on January 5, 1944 in Lincoln, Nebraska to Perry and Virginia Schneider. His birth was accompanied by that of his twin brother Larry. After graduating from Southeast High School in 1962, Gary immediately joined the military. After his time as a drill sergeant in the US Army Reserve and subsequent discharge, Gary turned his focus to his career as an electrician, first as an apprentice with the IBEW Union, and later for a lengthy career at Colin Electric.

In 1969 Gary married Joyce Elaine Rodgers and to this union were born two sons, Alan and Scott. They made their home on what was once the outskirts of Lincoln, where they raised their sons. It was here that Gary first developed a true passion in his life, serving as a volunteer firefighter. It is while wearing this uniform and serving in this capacity, that his loved ones remember him best. When Gary first joined the Southeast Rural Fire Department in 1971, his focus was a commitment to safety for his family and neighbors. From there it grew into much more, a lifetime commitment to the security of those in his district, as well as a commitment to his brothers and sisters who served alongside him. Whether in his own department or those of the surrounding areas, Gary was known far and wide for his dedication and experience. From weekly fire meetings, to leaving his day job at Colin Electric to respond to a fire call, Gary was rarely seen without his radio and gear. It was during these decades that Gary would eventually take on the role of fire chief in 1986, and under Gary’s leadership the Southeast Fire Department flourished. Over the last two decades, Gary has continued to be heavily involved with the department including serving on the board of directors for the district, while also spending time with family and traveling with his partner, Marlene King. Through Marlene, Gary’s family grew to include Lesa, granddaughter Samantha and grandson Finn.

Gary is survived by his sons Alan (Chris) Schneider and Scott (Andrea) Schneider, his partner, Marlene King, siblings, Steve (Nancy) Schneider of Lincoln, sister-in-law Pat Schneider; grandchildren, Tyler Trautwein, Aaron, Patrick, Katy, Ava and Joslyn Schneider, Samantha and Finn; many nephews and nieces, other relatives and a host of friends.

Gary was preceded in death by his father Perry Wilbur Schneider, mother Virginia Lee Box, step father Milton Box and twin brother Larry Schneider.