Leon Edward Schneider

May 22, 2025

“Larger than life, and even bigger in heart.”
Leon Edward Schneider, age 67, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2025. Leon was born on August 28, 1957, in Denver to Paul E. and Evea (Petty) Schneider and raised in Sharon Springs, Kansas, where he was confirmed in the Sharon Lutheran church. He lived a life full of adventure, connection, and purpose. He dedicated over 40 years to the natural gas industry and spent his days building not just a career but a reputation for hard work, honesty, and know-how.
Leon had the soul of a traveler. With his beloved wife Patti by his side, he made the open road his home, living full-time in an RV and exploring the beauty of the United States. Whether it was a scenic highway, a hidden gem, or just a quiet campground with his Westies, he found joy in the journey and peace in the simple things.
Known for his huge heart, Leon had a gift for conversation and a knack for turning strangers into lifelong friends. He made people feel seen, heard, and special—because to Leon, everyone was special. His goofy, comedic spirit lit up every room, and his down-to-earth wisdom left an impact on everyone lucky enough to know him.
He was a fixer in every sense—whether it was something broken around the house or someone going through a tough time. He believed in doing things yourself, in finding the right way (not the expensive way), and in always being there for the people who needed him—even if they barely knew him.
Leon’s courage, kindness, and unwavering curiosity live on in the many lives he touched. He was brave, selfless, generous, funny, and fiercely loyal—the kind of man you looked up to not just because he seemed to have all the answers, but because he truly listened to your questions.
Leon is survived by his loving wife Patti, his children, and many grandchildren:
Michael Schneider and his wife Clarissa (and their four children),
Bradley Schneider and his wife Jillian (and their three children),
Brian Schneider and his wife Kayla (and their four children),
Jason Cates, 
Robert Romero and his wife Kimberly (and their three children),
Lizabeth Romero and Brandon Vittur (and her three children).
He is also survived by his sisters Verla Terry, Linda and her husband Oly Johnson and Karlin Barton. He now joins his older brother Wayne in heaven—perhaps meeting him for the very first time.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 24 at 11:00 AM MDT at Sharon Lutheran Church, 503 S Gardner St, Sharon Springs, KS 67758. In keeping with his wishes, Leon will be cremated and mixed in the surviving family member’s oatmeal, and his family invites all who knew and loved him to come share stories, laughter, and memories as bold as the man himself.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages acts of kindness in Leon’s honor: fix something for a neighbor, strike up a conversation with a stranger, or take the scenic route—you know he would.