Nicole Maune

Hey Sissy,

In all our losses past, we’d always speak to how do we sum up a person, a life lived, in a few words in an obituary. Simply, we couldn’t, really didn’t even try to, did we. We knew & understood that those in the circle, in the know, knew, & those not, didn’t. So, just say a few words & leave it at that. Though I’m so used to talking with you, that’s what I’m going to do, just talk with you awhile.

So…

As you know Sissy, our parents didn’t think they could have children, hence my adoption. Though happily, 7 years later, they got it right, ha, & my beautiful Sissy, you, Nicole, were born. And fittingly so, your middle name, Joy, was for the joy you would bring to our family. No words Sissy, can truly do justice to the love all those who dearly love you. I cherished being a part of your love for life, me, Chase, family, friends & their children, your puppies, your dream home, your most recent career path change in new beginnings & the saltwater pool. I know you were so looking forward to this upcoming Summer, being able to walk the pool again in being able to wade for hours every day, gravity & pain free from the physical woes your conditions burdened you with. We’d listen to 80’s on 8 & Phil Collins Radio on Sirius chatting about life as I’d lay-out, basking in the sun.

You were loyal to those you loved, & those who were chosen to feel that, understood your dedication & love. Your wit, humor, sense & sensibility, in your ability to make those who you cared about, feel at ease, loved, supported & at home was second to none. And even though you were strongly opinionated, yeah, kind of runs in our family, you had a way of easing the pierce to a gentle prick. Your strength unimaginable in your ability to handle all you’ve been dealing with over these years since your Breast Cancer diagnosis & all following; impressive indeed!

Yeah, if somehow, you’re reading this, I know you’re laughing too, as we often did when discussing the harsh realities of life’s happenings, making all light-hearted & comical. A breath of fresh air to handle the tough stuff. Too funny, right Sissy!!! Yeah! That’s the way we roll! I will cherish all. Though the last few years especially, were special, as I shed my typical not caring about watching sports, where you loved it. Somehow, I came to love it too & we, in our continued growing together as brother & sister, watching sports together, brought back our family’s ways of celebrating pastimes of Baseball & Football. We’d watch, cheering & eating & drinking, celebrating life. Well, Chase & I anyway in the drinking, lol, as you enjoyed a Mountain Dew or 7’Up or Tea & endless H2O.

Speaking of Chase, luckily you met him on, of all places, the Internet; I was skeptical as any protective brother would be. I remember the day he came calling, ha, for that first date. Met him at the door, looked him over, gave him the thumbs up & 22 years later, family he’s been since day one. You were lucky to find him, as he’s proven to be an equally loyal, beautiful human being & wonderfully welcomed addition to our family.

As with Mom & Dad, we’d always gather, no matter what, most every Sunday for dinner, carrying on the Schneider tradition. Too, we’d always check in on each other daily, again, rare for most siblings, though we are not ‘typical’ by any means.

Alas! It was down to you & I remaining of our Schneider Clan, a brother & Sissy team till our ends. Sadly, your end came first, my baby Sissy. Wasn’t supposed to happen like that, though with what you’d been dealt with, we knew you might have to go before me. If able, I know you’re dancing & celebrating with all those you loved & cherished in family & friends that passed on to the wonder in wandering of the Great Beyond.

Loving & missing you deeply Sissy, until my dying day. I will cherish all our memories & moments; none are lost on me. As we are known for great memories, though different in what we chose to remember. I will live within your memory with Chase as we ride the winds of life together with you in our hearts. Mom, Dad, Uncle Leo & Aunt Ann were hard in their passing for us both. Though, you, my Sissy, are harder still in Sibling, my best of friends & family. My only family left after all our family had to go & pass on to who knows what or where. Well, now you do too. I hope it’s AMAZING!!!

Peace & Love Sissy…

Ran

In lieu of flowers, edible goodies, donations, cards, &/or any other offers of gratitude & kindness, contributions are preferred to the Susan G. Komen foundation for her & their exceptional work & research regarding Breast Cancer, & Missouri Baptist ICU for their unwavering care for my Sissy & those in need of emergency attention. Just a huge THANK YOU for who you all are & how you are trying to help those in need in the most crucial of times.

A graveside service will be held at Beth Shalom Cemetery at 2pm on March 23, 2025.