Joseph Schnirer, 93; beloved husband of Dorothy nee Schneckenburger; loving father of Larry (Toni), Gail (Denise), and the late David (Norine); dearest grandfather of Lori, Matthew (Emily), Sara, Brent, and Jaclyn (Manny) Soto; great grandfather of Breanna, Tyler, Alexandra, Logan, Mackenzie; preceded in death by his parents, and brother Stanley Schnirer; fond uncle of many.
Joe was born in Chicago but moved to Indiana at a very young age. He spent most of his childhood and early teen years farming. When Joe was 19, he was drafted and served in the Army. He was captured in Italy and was held as a POW in Germany for almost one year. He was very proud of his country and those he served with.
Joe worked as a Machinist and Tool & Die Maker for most of his career. He could fix or build most anything. He passed those talents onto all three of his children and then on to his grandchildren. He and Dorothy were married for 70 wonderful years. They enjoyed family, friends, neighbors, dancing, songs & travels – especially to their trips to Branson. He loved the Fourth of July parade in Niles that went by his home each year. The various branches of the service had even been known to stop the parade at his corner and salute Joe. He and the Schnirer family were always overwhelmed by their acknowledgement of his service. Joe’s greatest gift was his love of family; which we will always cherish.
Visitation was on June 15 at the Skaja Terrace Funeral Home, 7812 N. Milwaukee Ave., Niles. Funeral Service was June 16 at the Immanuel Lutheran Church, 855 Lee St., Des Plaines. Interment Ridgewood Cemetery. Memorials to Immanuel Lutheran Church will be appreciated. Funeral info: 847-966-7302 or www,skajafuneralhomes.com